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Male barristers are more likely to have complaints about them referred for disciplinary action than female barristers, according to a report from the Bar’s regulator.
The Bar Standards Board’s report, Complaints at the Bar, which analysed complaints data between 2012-14, also showed that male barristers are more frequently the subject of an external complaint than female barristers.
While BME (black and minority ethnic) barristers were more likely to be the subject of an internal complaint and to have a complaint closed without investigation than white barristers, they faced disciplinary hearings more frequently.
Past research also indicated that male and ethnic minority barristers were subject to a disproportionate number of complaints.
Commenting on the report’s publication in February, the BSB’s director of professional conduct, Sara Jagger, said: ‘It is pleasing that the report indicates there is no significant difference in complaints-handling between BME and white barristers.
‘We do, however, need to look more carefully at the new findings in relation to the potential issue of gender bias and ensure that we take action to address this.’
She said the public and profession can have confidence in the process’s fairness.
Male barristers are more likely to have complaints about them referred for disciplinary action than female barristers, according to a report from the Bar’s regulator.
The Bar Standards Board’s report, Complaints at the Bar, which analysed complaints data between 2012-14, also showed that male barristers are more frequently the subject of an external complaint than female barristers.
While BME (black and minority ethnic) barristers were more likely to be the subject of an internal complaint and to have a complaint closed without investigation than white barristers, they faced disciplinary hearings more frequently.
Past research also indicated that male and ethnic minority barristers were subject to a disproportionate number of complaints.
Commenting on the report’s publication in February, the BSB’s director of professional conduct, Sara Jagger, said: ‘It is pleasing that the report indicates there is no significant difference in complaints-handling between BME and white barristers.
‘We do, however, need to look more carefully at the new findings in relation to the potential issue of gender bias and ensure that we take action to address this.’
She said the public and profession can have confidence in the process’s fairness.
Far-ranging month for the Chair of the Bar
Endometriosis Awareness North, a charity raising awareness of endometriosis and supporting those affected across the North of England, has received a £500 boost from AlphaBiolabs via the company’s Giving Back initiative
Marie Law, Director of Toxicology at AlphaBiolabs, examines the most recent data on alcohol misuse in the UK, and the implications for alcohol testing in family proceedings
Clement Cowley, Partner at The Penny Group, explains how tailored financial planning can help barristers take control of their finances and plan with confidence
Marie Law, Director of Toxicology at AlphaBiolabs
A £500 donation from AlphaBiolabs has been made to the leading UK charity tackling international parental child abduction and the movement of children across international borders
Seeing the full picture – Baljit Ubhey OBE outlines the CPS action plan to tackle violence against women and girls, offering insights directly relevant to courtroom practice
Heritage as an anchor and a compass, finding our common humanity and embracing the power of the outsider – Melina Antoniadis’s lessons learnt
Is the Judicial Conduct Investigations Office process fit for purpose? Women barristers’ experiences of bullying are not being reported or, if they are, they are not making it through the system, says Tana Adkin KC
Review by Daniel Barnett
Chair of the Bar reports back