Because the Legal Services Board has a different perspective, further developmental work and consultation will be carried out by the Bar Council prior to the new application for the change to the Code of Conduct being submitted. Regrettably, it is not possible at present to ascertain when the new Contractual Terms will be implemented, but it is unlikely to be before late 2010.

In the meantime, barristers are urged to use the Contractual Terms in Annex G2 of the Code of Conduct which will enable barristers to sue as well as to continue making complaints to the Bar Council under the Withdrawal of Credit scheme in respect of unpaid fees.

For further information, please contact Janice Marshall, Fees Collection Manager at the Bar Council on 020 7611 1375 or email her on jmarshall@barcouncil.org.uk