Lasting powers of attorney
The Times (£) looks at digitising the process for obtaining lasting powers of attorney, with lawyers concerned it may increase risks to vulnerable people and worsen delays.
Law Society President Lubna Shuja highlighted the complexity of government technology systems and the inability of many people in care homes or hospitals to use online processes, as well as the 1.5 million homes without internet access.
Stressing the importance of maintaining a paper route, she said that it is critical that the service “does not become digital by default”.
Failures to bring defendants to court
The Independent reports that a record number of trials have been adjourned due to failures to bring defendants to court from prison.
Given the court backlogs, further delays due to the non-delivery of defendants are “the last thing” victims, defendants and witnesses need, said Law Society President Lubna Shuja.
The piece also mentioned our 2018 analysis that an average day in court cost the state just shy of £2,700 for staff, judges and building-related costs.
Demolition plan
The Guardian speaks to Sebastian Charles, chair of our Planning and Environmental Law Committee, about the decision by the Royal Borough of Greenwich to order the demolition of 204 homes at the Mast Quay development in south-east London.
Climate clauses
Law Careers.Net reports that the Chancery Lane Project has drafted 10 climate clauses to use in commercial agreements and legal documents under US law.
The piece mentions our climate change guidance published earlier this year.
Law Society President Lubna Shuja said: “The effects of climate change – even on legal practices – are wide-ranging and constantly evolving. Solicitors should be aware of this changing landscape and its potential impact upon their organisations, as well as on the legal advice they provide.”
Youngest president
Alice Kinder, one of our Social Mobility Ambassadors, has been elected as the youngest ever president of the Birmingham Law Society, reports Chamberlink Magazine.
Also worth a read:
- SRA warning to immigration solicitors – Legal Futures and Gazette
- Old Bailey delays – Times (£)
- Prisons struggle to retain staff – Guardian
- Conveyancing Association launch future digital conveyancing protocol – Legal Futures
- Taskforce launched to examine ethics of firms acting for oligarchs – Gazette
- Downing Street authorises ‘warning shot’ of leaving European Convention on Human Rights – Times (£)