Cyberattacks
The Times (£) reports that cyberattacks at UK law firms are on the rise.
Law Society president Nick Emmerson stressed the need for care, particularly when firms receive urgent requests to send colleagues’ or clients’ information and funds — they should check with their security team to make sure such requests are genuine.
“Regular cybersecurity and IT training is important to ensure that staff across the organisation are aware of the most recent internal cyberpolicies, as well as cyberattacks to look out for,” he added.
Diversity Access Scheme
The Times (£) has a feature about our Diversity Access Scheme (DAS) which was launched two decades ago to supports individuals who face social, educational, financial or personal obstacles in qualifying in the profession.
Since then the scheme has helped about 300 people to become solicitors by supporting them through the Legal Practice Course (LPC) and the more recent Solicitors Qualifying Examination (SQE) with scholarships, mentoring and work experience.
Harry Payne, who received a DAS scholarship, tells the Times: “I can unequivocally say that receiving the DAS award changed my life and I could not recommend it enough for potential solicitors from underrepresented backgrounds.”
New CEO of the Judicial Office
Today’s Family Lawyer covers solicitor Michelle Crotty being named as the new chief executive (CEO) of the Judicial Office. She will take up her post on 22 April.
Law Society president Nick Emmerson said: “We’re happy to see a solicitor appointed to the role. We look forward to working with the new CEO to ensure the best and the brightest from all backgrounds are given a real chance at a judicial career.”
Nigeria-UK trade agreement
PunchNG and NewsNGR report that legal practitioners in Nigeria oppose the bilateral agreement between the UK and Nigeria allowing British lawyers to practise law within Nigeria.
The Law Society is mentioned.
Building Safety Act 2022 guide
Fire Protection Association continues coverage of the Law Society publishing a new guide to help members involved in flat sales and purchases understand the Building Safety Act 2022 (BSA 2022).
Law Society president Nick Emmerson said: “Our guide will help solicitors make sense of the improvements to the legislation that have been made since it was first introduced.
“It will also provide solicitors with necessary information to make informed decisions about taking on residential leasehold conveyancing matters where the BSA 2022 applies.”
Also worth a read:
- Minister rules out devolution of justice to the Welsh government – Gazette
- CILEX calls for urgent civil legal aid reforms – Solicitors Journal
- Need for ethical training of lawyers – Times (£)
- Commons debate descends into chaos – Guardian
- CILEX members are considering legal action if CILEX’s charter and byelaws change without their say – Gazette
- Post Office Scandal: Civil servant rejects claims she asked to slow compensation – Guardian