Fall in number of duty solicitors
BBC News, Manchester World, Lincolnshire World, Warwickshire World, Liverpool World, Sussex Express, Cornish Times and 60 other regional outlets cover our statistics predicting a “perfect storm” in criminal justice as the number of duty solicitors has fallen by more than a quarter since 2017.
Law Society President Lubna Shuja said: "Across the country, duty solicitors are working day and night providing legal advice at the crucial earliest stage of cases at police stations, ensuring access to justice for all. But there simply aren’t enough of them to go around because the work is not financially viable.
"The government sees itself as the party of law and order, but the evidence points to the contrary as its decisions continue to put the future of our criminal justice system at risk."
BBC Radio Cumbria (from 2:53:40) mentions our data, noting that Cumbria could be one of the worst served areas in the UK.
Read our press release on Dorset and Warwickshire
UK lawyers to practise in Luxembourg
E-Private Client reports that UK qualified solicitors will now be able to practise law in Luxembourg, following a new law passed by Luxembourg’s parliament on 29 June.
Divorce: Why couples are turning to ‘nesting’
The Observer examines why divorcing couples are increasingly turning to ‘nesting’ – where both parents take turns living in the family home, week-on-week, while one stays in a flat nearby.
Elizabeth Fletcher, a member of our Family Law Committee, said that one reason for the increasing popularity of the arrangement is the current economic climate.
“It all comes down to mortgage rates. For your average fortysomething divorcee with relatively young children, it can be tough to fund two 6% mortgages – there’s just not enough money to go round. So it’s either that or the leaving parent is in a bedsit. We’ll definitely be seeing more of this.”
Aretha Franklin’s will
Kieran Bowe, member of our Wills and Equity Committee, spoke to BBC Radio Shropshire (from 01:45:54) about what is considered an official will and how to ensure your will is valid, following a US jury ruling that the late singer Aretha Franklin’s handwritten note is a legal will.
Also worth a read:
- Post Office Inquiry: Time drags on for victims – Times (£)
- Women face barriers to seeking civil legal aid help, report – Legal Futures
- QLR scheme failing for victims – Guardian
- Legal system needs reform and AI – City A.M.