News

The world’s largest court centre for financial, business and property disputes officially opened for business in London’s Fetter Lane, in December.

Workers could be charged up to £2,350 to bring an employment tribunal claim, under Ministry of Justice (MoJ) proposals.

The Bar Council, which represents barristers in England and Wales, has welcomed the Crown Prosecution Service’s (CPS) announcement regarding appointments to its new Advocacy Panel. However, it has acknowledged the length of time taken to reach this stage, as many practitioners have faced an uncertain future, at a time of increasing pressure on their services.

Michael Grieve QC was for many years a member of the Board of Counsel, and over that period contributed many accomplished and interesting articles.

Journalists and legal bloggers are free to tweet, text and email from court, the Lord Chief Justice, Lord Judge has confirmed.  Previously, prior authorisation from the court was required.

Commission announces its new plans for 2012-2014

Last November, the Commission presented its Annual Work Programme for 2012, containing a detailed list of planned legislative and nonlegislative initiatives to be proposed over the next three years. Recommended reading! See: XXhttp://bit.ly/xpAVMJ.

Peers debating the Legal Aid, Sentencing and Punishment of Offenders Bill in the Lords have questioned the Government’s assessment of its impact.

The Crown Prosecution Service has announced the results of their process of selecting self employed barristers for CPS Advocate Panels for those wishing to appear for them in the Crown and Higher Courts. 2580 of the 2816 applicants were successful, a reduction from the previous size of 3500. Each panel member has been placed on one of four levels, matching their ability, knowledge and experience.75% of those who applied were placed on the level which they requested. 

The Judicial Appointments Commission (JAC) has appointed three new Commissioners.

The CPS has announced that it is introducing new remuneration arrangements in respect of the payment of fees to self-employed advocates with effect from 1 March 2012.