Government targets ‘lefty’ lawyers
The Gazette Magazine (pg 18-22) covers in-depth the government’s recent rhetoric attacking “crooked” and “lefty” lawyers and a dossier sent to the media by CCHQ about immigration solicitor Jacqueline McKenzie.
Law Society of England and Wales President Lubna Shuja said: “I think it’s quite worrying there are dossiers on solicitors and firms… it appears there’s been some kind of surveillance going on.
“I have been contacted by other immigration solicitors who are concerned for their safety and welfare as well. I know of other immigration solicitors who have been receiving hate mail, they have been hounded by some members of the media… targeted because they are immigration solicitors.”
The Illegal Migration Act – and its workability – was also discussed, with Lucy Dennett, our Direct of Policy saying: “The government’s been advised from multiple sources that it’s unworkable.
“All this rhetoric is to hide the unworkability of the legislation that’s just recently been passed.”
SRA consultation on CILEX
The Gazette takes an in-depth look at the ongoing dispute over the regulation of CILEX, which has seen two consultations launched – from CILEX and the Solicitors Regulation Authority, which could take over the regulation of chartered lawyers.
Law Society President Lubna Shuja said: “While the SRA and CILEX have said they believe that the proposals will benefit consumers, our view is that there is a higher risk of causing greater confusion for when they are choosing the appropriate legal provider to meet their needs.
“This consultation is an important opportunity for solicitors to make their views known and have a say on what is being proposed for CILEX lawyers. Whilst we appreciate that many of our members hire, supervise and work with CILEX lawyers, we are also mindful that many do not. We will be working with all of our members to gather their views and respond to the consultation, whilst also encouraging them to submit their own responses too.”
Also covered by Today’s Wills & Probate.
New board members announced
Global Legal Post continues coverage of our announcement of four new members appointed to the Law Society’s board, as past members step down from the post. The new independent board members are Larissa Joy, Eileen Schofield, Krishna Vishnubhotla and Kevin Hogarth.
Law Society Board Chair Robert Bourns said: "I am grateful to Vicky, Penelope, Judy and Bill, who have served the Board and Society to such good effect over the last five and a half years. Their commitment and wisdom have helped to establish the Board within the governance of the Society.
"I am pleased to welcome Eileen, Larissa, Krishna, and Kevin in succession. The skills, experience, and insights they possess will support the further development of the Society as it works to promote our profession as well as the integrity and standing of this jurisdiction in an ever-changing and challenging environment."
Russian sanctions on UK legal services
STEP reports that City lawyers have warned Russian sanctions may create problems for the UK legal service sector.
Diversity and inclusion in the profession
Shaheen Mamun, one of our Social Mobility Ambassadors, writes in the Gazette about why diversity and inclusion must remain at the forefront of the profession’s agenda.
He said: “Once in the profession, Black, Asian and minority ethnic legal professionals have reported discrimination and microaggressions by their colleagues. These negative encounters can hinder career progression and development.
“Accessing influential social networks can also be a challenge for ethnic minority solicitors and could also impact their career growth.
“Fostering an inclusive workplace culture that values diversity and actively combats racism is pivotal for promoting talent retention and advancement. Providing mentorship programmes and creating networking opportunities can also help bridge this gap and allow ethnic minority lawyers to build connections and access valuable resources.”
Also worth a read:
- Government retains EU equal pay legislation – Sky News
- Providers call for systemic change to immigration legal aid – LawCareers.Net
- PM’s director of communications quits – BBC News & Telegraph (£)
- NDAs: Bar Council stance attacked by Weinstein whistleblower – Legal Futures
- LCSP report says regulators must collaborate to help consumers – Legal Futures