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At a recent disciplinary hearing, a barrister was found to have brought the Bar into disrepute by completing a crossword puzzle in open court during a lull in the proceedings but when a jury and the defendant were present in Court. Such activity can lead to the wrong impression being formed by those witnessing such behaviour and create the perception that the barrister is not interested in, or paying proper attention to, the proceedings. This is likely to bring the profession into disrepute and is not in the public interest. If complaints are made to the BSB about this type of behaviour, the Bar should be aware that the BSB will consider taking disciplinary action.
At a recent disciplinary hearing, a barrister was found to have brought the Bar into disrepute by completing a crossword puzzle in open court during a lull in the proceedings but when a jury and the defendant were present in Court. Such activity can lead to the wrong impression being formed by those witnessing such behaviour and create the perception that the barrister is not interested in, or paying proper attention to, the proceedings. This is likely to bring the profession into disrepute and is not in the public interest. If complaints are made to the BSB about this type of behaviour, the Bar should be aware that the BSB will consider taking disciplinary action.
Now is the time to tackle inappropriate behaviour at the Bar as well as extend our reach and collaboration with organisations and individuals at home and abroad
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