Probate delays
Gazette covers the decline in probate delays, as probate applications took an average of 9.3 weeks to process in July 2024.
President Nick Emmerson said: “The decrease in probate delays is promising, but more should be done. Delays to the probate service can be devastating for families and loved ones during their time of grief.
“The steps HMCTS has taken to address the issue of probate delays have largely come about through its regular engagement with our probate professional user group. We are pleased to see that HMCTS has responded to the group’s feedback.”
Legal Heroes
Gazette covers last week’s Legal Heroes ceremony, celebrating solicitors who continue to make impactful changes to their local communities.
Law Society president Nick Emmerson said: “Congratulations to all our nominees, both winners and shortlisted.
“It is great to recognise their efforts. It is inspiring to hear about the incredible work they have done, positively impacting their local communities.”
“Our justice system cannot work without solicitors and this is a good time to celebrate some of those dedicated lawyers who selflessly support their local communities.
“These are people who use their skills and expertise to assist those in need demonstrating values that are at the heart our profession.”
Civil justice
Solicitors Journal and Today’s Conveyancer report on a new a study commissioned by the Law Society from Frontier Economics has examined in-depth the sustainability of legal aid and the steps government can take to increase access to legal advice and reduce burdens on public services.
President Nick Emmerson said: “Previous governments have slowly pushed the civil justice system to the brink of collapse by starving it of investment for decades.
“Legal aid is one way for citizens to have our voices heard and our lack of access to it has implications on health, employment and our children’s education.
“Like any other public service, legal aid needs to be maintained with our research showing the economic benefits if the new government were to invest in the justice system.
“The Prime Minister and his government have a chance to right the wrongs of the previous administration by properly funding civil legal aid.
“This will ensure that all public services can cope if a family is fighting eviction, tackling housing disrepair or addressing other life-changing issues.”
Climate risk consultation
Gazette, Business Fast and LexisNexis (£) report that the Law Society has launched a consultation on updated guidance for conveyancers on how to advise clients on climate risk.
Deputy vice president Mark Evans said: “The Law Society wants to support solicitors by providing guidance that helps them navigate this important and complex topic. We have been working with conveyancing and environmental groups to explore how a new climate risk and conveyancing practice note could support members with their professional duties and best practice.”
Reimagining Justice in Wales
BBC Wales and Politics London discuss our recent report that highlights the challenges in the legal sector in Wales. They mention that the Law Society is calling on a scheme which supports apprentice lawyers in England to be made available in Wales. In England, aspiring lawyers can choose to work in a law office rather than go to university and have their training subsidised by the UK Government.
Labour party conference
A Lawyer Writes comments on the Labour party conference which started on the weekend in Liverpool where three legal figures, including Vice President Richard Atkinson in attendance.
Non-disclosure agreements
BBC Radio 5 discusses non-disclosure agreements and mentions that the Law Society, along with the Legal Services Board and the Solicitors Regulation Authority have sent out warning notices about non-disclosure agreements being misused.
Also worth a read:
- Met police chief hails race action plan as ‘a step in the right direction’ – Guardian
- Unions and Labour still wrangling over workers' rights – BBC News
- More than 30 people smugglers arrested for attempting to sneak migrants into UK via Ireland – Telegraph (£)
- Thames Water creditors plan emergency funding for troubled utility – CityA.M
- Rachel Reeves orders investigations into £600m of Covid contracts - Guardian
- Domestic abuse specialists to join police control rooms – Times (£)
- “Not a steady state period” – SRA extends chair’s term for two more years – Legal Futures