Domestic abuse survivors
Law Society President Lubna Shuja explains in a Guardian letter how the “failure of the qualified legal representative scheme to protect survivors of domestic abuse from being cross-examined by their alleged abuser is deeply concerning, but sadly no surprise”.
“Our members working in the family courts tell us that the scheme is struggling to attract advocates because the fees paid are based on legal aid rates that have not increased since 1996. This represents a real-terms fee cut of 50%. Quite simply, those who are able to do this vital work cannot afford to undertake it.”
Competition and Markets Authority crackdown
The Times (£), Gazette and Today’s Wills and Probate report on the Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) signalling that it will crack down on firms breaching consumer protection law when providing will-writing, divorce and probate services.
Law Society President Lubna Shuja said: “We welcome this investigation into the potential risk consumers face from using unregulated legal services and possible breaches of consumer protection law. When writing a Will, we would encourage consumers to use a solicitors’ firm, many of whom are members of the Law Society’s Wills and Inheritance Quality Scheme (WIQS).
“People who use a solicitor receive support from a specialist legal professional who is regulated and insured. When writing your own Will, it is recommended that you get it checked by a solicitor to make sure it is valid.”
Gary Rycroft, a member of our Council Membership Committee, is quoted in the Telegraph (£) coverage of the CMA crackdown.
Cyber insurance
The Gazette Ireland covers our research that shows fewer than one in three (28%) firms having taken out cyber security insurance.
Law Society President Lubna Shuja said: “As firms look to renew their insurance for October, our research provides useful information and market analysis.
“We encourage firms to give serious consideration to purchasing cyber insurance.
“Our research shows that just 28% of firms have purchased cyber insurance. This is a small increase from the 21% who bought it in 2018.”
Building Safety Act
Today’s Conveyancer and Legal Futures look at what the Law Society has been doing for members in relation to the Building Safety Act 2022 and residential conveyancing.
Criminal Legal Aid Advisory Board
The Law Society is mentioned in a Gazette piece looking at the appointment of Deborah Taylor as chair of the Criminal Legal Aid Advisory Board.
Also worth a read:
- Israeli MPs pass highly controversial bill despite mass protests – BBC
- Mediation will become compulsory for civil claims valued up to £10,000 – Gazette
- Reports of modern slavery double – BBC
- Judge rules Suella Braverman acted unlawfully in failing to provide basic support to asylum seekers – Guardian