It’s been a busy week at Bar but not necessarily for the right reasons. While the Bar Council has appointed its first chief executive in two years, 39 Essex Street has announced it is to take a year out from recruiting pupils for following its merger with 4-5 Gray’s Inn last year. Meanwhile, controversial comments from Hardwicke Chambers’ Barbara Hewson have forced it to distance itself publicly from its own member. Continue reading “Bar round-up: Bar Council appoints chief executive while 39 Essex Street to suspend pupillages”
Judicial moves: Search for new LCJ begins and Jay QC appointed to High Court
The profile of the judiciary was significantly raised this week as the search to fill the most senior judicial role in the country began and arguably now the most well-known civil barrister in the country was appointed as a High Court judge.
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Online controversy alert: Hardwicke disowns article by own barrister after attack on Yewtree sex investigation
Since the rise of social media gave professional lawyers a fast-expanding number of outlets in which to publish their views, there has been a protracted (and often turgid) debate on the liabilities and brand risk for law firms and chambers regarding the statements made by their lawyers.
But this has appeared to be largely about lawyers being lawyers – hunting for the potential pitfalls and liability in any situation – rather than there being much of a problem.
Bar Council launches nursery service following six-year campaign
The Bar Council yesterday (16 April) launched the first ever Bar nursery at Smithfield House, in a bid to support working parents.
The central London childcare facility is the result of a campaign by the Bar Nursery Association, which was established in 2007 with the aim of promoting a family-friendly working environment and to retain female professionals after having children.
Continue reading “Bar Council launches nursery service following six-year campaign”
Falling QC appointments reflect fears for criminal Bar’s prospects
QC appointments have declined for the fourth year running with the number of applicants also on a downward path.
In this year’s annual silk round, announced on 27 February, just 84 QCs were appointed from a total of 183 applicants. This was down from 88 awards in 2012 and 120 in 2011 from 214 and 251 applications respectively.
Continue reading “Falling QC appointments reflect fears for criminal Bar’s prospects”
Taylor Wessing eyes Hong Kong deal after Singapore launch
Taylor Wessing is more likely to merge with a local practice in Hong Kong than to set up in the region organically, the firm indicated last month, as it continues to expand its Asian footprint after taking over Singapore alliance firm RHT Law in March.
Tim Eyles, the firm’s London-based managing partner, told LB that the firm would not go into Hong Kong on its own; rather, it would look for a local practice to tie-up with.
Continue reading “Taylor Wessing eyes Hong Kong deal after Singapore launch”