Balancing victim’s rights with that to a fair trial
The Gazette reports counsel in rape trials could be required to have certain lines of questioning pre-approved by the judge under proposals floated by the Law Commission.
Law Society President Lubna Shuja said: “Criminal trials depend on the participation of complainants, so it is vital criminal justice agencies and the courts ensure their interests are protected and their experience in the trial process is as trauma-free as possible.
“But the fundamental right to a fair trial of the defendant must also be ensured and it is heartening to see the Law Commission recognises this.”
President visits Bradford
Telegraph & Argus, Yahoo News, Knowledia, Bradford Means Business and Dispatchist cover the President’s recent visit to Bradford to discuss diversity and inclusion in the legal sector.
Lubna said: “It was a delight to be back in Yorkshire, and to go back to the firm that had me on three work placements, to discuss key learnings from my 30-year career in the law.
“We’ve come a long way as a profession in that time. However, there’s always more that can be done to ensure those who want to pursue a legal career are not disadvantaged purely because of their background."
Judges under pressure
Chair of our Policy and Regulatory Affairs committee Jonathan Goldsmith writes for the Gazette about increasing pressure for the judiciary to make systematic disclosures about their interest.
New board chair announced
India Weekly reports that Amerdeep Somal has been appointed as our next board chair.
Law Society President Lubna Shuja said: “I am delighted to welcome Amerdeep to the Law Society and look forward to working with her in the run up to her taking over the role of Chair.
“As a solicitor with extensive board experience across a range of settings, Amerdeep brings with her a depth of knowledge which will benefit our members, the solicitor profession and the public.”
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