Law firms perform well during the pandemic
The Gazette and the Solicitors Journal report we've published our law management section's annual financial benchmarking survey for 2020-2021, revealing that median profit per equity partner rose by 39%.
Law Society vice president Lubna Shuja commented: "Solicitor firms demonstrated their resilience through 2020-21, using lifelines from government to retain staff and equipping them to support clients from outside traditional office environments.
"This survey highlights the range of vital activity, economic and social, which solicitors have continued to facilitate through the pandemic. It also provides insights into the drivers of success as firms look towards business in the new normal."
Rwanda asylum plan
The Paradise covers our reaction to the UK government's plan to send asylum seekers to Rwanda.
Law Society president I. Stephanie Boyce said: "Legal challenges establish if the government is abiding by its own laws. If the government wishes to avoid losing court cases, it should act within the law of the land."
Asylum seekers
African Voice Online reports our recent poll of the British public on the UK government's Nationality and Borders Bill. A clear majority of respondents – 65% – said refugees who have to take clandestine routes to reach safety in the UK should have the same rights as refugees who are brought here by the government.
I. Stephanie Boyce said: "Let's instead have an asylum system that is fair and fit for purpose – that makes decisions which have a profound impact on people's lives in line with British values and our international commitments."
Electronic bundles guidance highlights plight of litigants in person
The Financial Remedies Court has released guidance clarifying what litigants in person (LiPs) should do if they can't prepare an electronic bundle.
Law Society president I. Stephanie Boyce told the Gazette that LiPs are continuing to experience difficulties navigating the court system.
She added: "Often forced to represent themselves due to a lack of legal aid, litigants in person can struggle to understand court procedures and their legal entitlements.
"This struggle can be exacerbated by the increased digitisation of court processes, which the courts system must ensure doesn't leave people behind.
"Providing legal aid for early advice in family cases would help divert litigants from the court system towards mediation and the early resolution of their cases."
Also worth a read:
- Record delays in the court system - BBC
- Strong showing for far right: Analysis of French presidential election – Guardian
- PM cost GQ Magazine £4k in parking fines – Evening Standard
- Twitter urged to deal with Elon Musk – Times (£)
- SMEs say rising costs will hit growth – FT (£)