If this sector is wiped out, there will be a hole in our justice system that will take a long time to mend.
Two reports in the last few days raise the alarming news of existential threats to whole areas of the legal profession. Last week we read that as many as 70% of young barristers will not survive in practice for more than 6 months. Those who do legally aided work will be the worst hit –
Two reports in the last few days raise the alarming news of existential threats to whole areas of the legal profession. Last week we read that as many as 70% of young barristers will not survive in practice for more than 6 months. Those who do legally aided work will be the worst hit –
I shared this story on twitter and there was a lot of lively
debate. Most of this was supportive. But there were also the predictable
negative comments about moaning lawyers and there being far too many of them.
Some even suggested that they could go and work for big companies. The idea of
an independent bar seemed to some, to be something from a work of fantasy!
Today we read a similarly gloomy story about High Street
Solicitors –
These smaller firms and sole practitioners face huge
difficulties going forwards. As many as 70% could close because of the
coronavirus pandemic. It is interesting that the story is picked up by the
Daily Mail which has done more than anyone to attack the work done by those who act for ordinary people –
The media and politicians have all done their bit to create
this false image that lawyers are all fat cats who are out to make a fortune at
the expense of the beleaguered insurance industry and big business. The reality
is that they are dedicated, hard working young professionals who have chosen to
work for the rights of ordinary citizens. You would struggle to find a lawyer
who acts for victims of medical negligence who has even dreamt of ‘cashing in’
on anything. This is extremely demanding work which can take many years to
concluded. Victims face life changing injuries and often need care for life.
The same media that attacks the lawyers, also like to call the victims ‘winners’
if they get justice –
Most of these solicitors and barristers work on the basis
that are paid nothing if they do not get positive result. This is the reality
of the other favourite insult – ‘the no win no fee lawyer’ but that is another
story! I have never met a lawyer who does this work, who sees it as a quick way
to get rich – in fact it is the opposite.
Many lawyers are often the first person to whom a person will speak. This is normally unpaid work but plays a massive role in protecting victims, for example, of domestic violence. -
'.... a friend as well as a lawyer'
There is a whole sector of the legal profession that is currently at risk of disappearing.
Many lawyers are often the first person to whom a person will speak. This is normally unpaid work but plays a massive role in protecting victims, for example, of domestic violence. -
'.... a friend as well as a lawyer'
There is a whole sector of the legal profession that is currently at risk of disappearing.
Society needs independent advocates who will represent
ordinary people if they are accused of wrongdoing or are victims of negligence.
We need solicitors who will work for the rights of victims. We need to change
the message. If this sector is wiped out, there will be a hole in our justice
system that will take a long time to mend.
It is encouraging that the opposition is raising concerns
and making positive suggestions -
We need a sensible debate about securing the foundations of
out justice system. Something must be done.
No comments:
Post a Comment