*/
Changes to the Bar Standards Board’s (BSB) complaints and disciplinary processes come into force on 31 March.
The changes are the culmination of an 18-month implementation project arising from recommendations made by Rob Behrens in his 2007 Strategic Review.
Key changes include a new process for referring complaints received by the BSB back to chambers to consider, with an obligation on heads of chambers to ensure that any complaints referred by the BSB are investigated and the outcome reported. For the first time, sentencing guidance in relation to disciplinary cases will be available and published on www.barstandardsboard.org.uk, allowing barristers to gauge the potential sanctions that might be imposed.
Another first is the introduction of a new disciplinary process known as “determination by consent”. This allows the BSB Complaints Committee to determine the outcome of complaints, with the barrister’s consent, and thereby avoid the time and expense of a formal disciplinary hearing.
A wide range of other changes have also been made to improve communications and accountability. A complaints information line for barristers and complainants has been set up and the appointment of an Independent Observer will ensure the operation of the processes is reviewed on a continual basis.
The introduction of a user satisfaction survey for all barristers and complainants involved in complaints will provide the BSB with essential information in shaping the future of the complaints and disciplinary system.
Sue Carr QC, who chaired the BSB’s implementation group, says: “These important changes demonstrate the BSB’s commitment to continual improvement in raising standards at the Bar and are a significant step forward in creating a more streamlined and effective complaints system that addresses the interests of the public as well as the profession.”
The changes are the culmination of an 18-month implementation project arising from recommendations made by Rob Behrens in his 2007 Strategic Review.
Key changes include a new process for referring complaints received by the BSB back to chambers to consider, with an obligation on heads of chambers to ensure that any complaints referred by the BSB are investigated and the outcome reported. For the first time, sentencing guidance in relation to disciplinary cases will be available and published on www.barstandardsboard.org.uk, allowing barristers to gauge the potential sanctions that might be imposed.
Another first is the introduction of a new disciplinary process known as “determination by consent”. This allows the BSB Complaints Committee to determine the outcome of complaints, with the barrister’s consent, and thereby avoid the time and expense of a formal disciplinary hearing.
A wide range of other changes have also been made to improve communications and accountability. A complaints information line for barristers and complainants has been set up and the appointment of an Independent Observer will ensure the operation of the processes is reviewed on a continual basis.
The introduction of a user satisfaction survey for all barristers and complainants involved in complaints will provide the BSB with essential information in shaping the future of the complaints and disciplinary system.
Sue Carr QC, who chaired the BSB’s implementation group, says: “These important changes demonstrate the BSB’s commitment to continual improvement in raising standards at the Bar and are a significant step forward in creating a more streamlined and effective complaints system that addresses the interests of the public as well as the profession.”
Changes to the Bar Standards Board’s (BSB) complaints and disciplinary processes come into force on 31 March.
The Chair of the Bar reports back
Susie Griffin on the admin that keeps barristers from billable work
Clement Cowley, Partner at The Penny Group, explains how global events can influence the performance of pensions and ISAs, and why taking a long-term approach to investing is often the most effective strategy
Mário Barroso, Head of R&D and Method Development at AlphaBiolabs, discusses what family law professionals need to know about hallucinogens, from the main hallucinogenic drugs encountered in family proceedings, to their effects and the testing options available
Harmony Christian Ministries is the latest charity to benefit from a £500 donation from AlphaBiolabs via the company’s Giving Back initiative
By David Green
At the start of her term, Chair of the Bar 2026 Kirsty Brimelow KC set out a series of priorities for the year ahead. One of those priorities was children in the justice system
As the world becomes more digital, Barbara Vinagre Mota examines international research into the mental health consequences of judges’ exposure to graphic and immersive evidence, highlighting the importance of support systems
In an era of patient-centred care and growing concern over misconduct in medical settings, why do women still lack the right to choose women consultants for examination and treatment? Charles Davey investigates
Reviewed by Daniel Barnett
James McNeill Whistler at Tate Britain until 27 September Rothko in Florence at Palazzo Strozzi until 23 August Reviewed by Stephen Cragg KC
