‘No-fault’ divorce
President of the Law Society Lubna Shuja writes to the Times (£) about reforms made to family law in the context of delays in the family justice system.
She said: “The compulsory mediation proposals are part of the government’s plan to reduce delays. However, compulsory mediation is not a substitute for funded early legal advice. Through the latter, people can be given a reality check and confidence that mediation is in their best interests.
“Despite the new divorce law, the family court system is on the verge of collapse. To keep cases out of court and tackle the backlog, the government should restore legal aid for family cases.”
On the anniversary of ‘no-fault’ divorce being introduced, the FT Adviser and Family Lore cover a rise in divorce applications. The Gazette also features reflections from family lawyers on the anniversary.
LPA’s in Scotland
Today’s Wills and Probate reports that the UK government has clarified the legal position of Lasting Powers of Attorney (PoA) made in Scotland and what their validity is in England and Wales.
Law Society President Lubna Shuja said: “We are pleased that the government has confirmed the clearly established position under the Mental Capacity Act 2005, which is that if a Scottish PoA is valid according to Scottish law (and has been registered with the Office of the Public Guardian Scotland), it is just as effective in England and Wales without any further steps being taken.”
PC holders survey
Legal Futures looks at the wellbeing of solicitors after our 2022 PC holder survey was released.
Law Society President Lubna Shuja said: “We recognise there is still work to be done for all members to feel they can equally enjoy a rewarding career in law.
“We commend those working in the legal sector for the important work they do, and the solidarity shown in standing up for vitally important tenets of access to justice and the rule of law.”
Also worth a read:
- “Non-negotiable expectations” for junior colleagues – Legal Cheek
- Take part in Solicitor’s Charity research questionnaire – New Law Journal
- Junior doctors begin four-day strike – BBC
- Law firm to use ChatGPT in clinical negligence cases – Legal Futures