We have published
a new consultation on potential changes to the rules
governing the Public and Licensed Access schemes for
barristers.
These schemes allow members of the public and other lay clients
to instruct barristers directly without first instructing a
solicitor or other intermediary.
Our new consultation follows our
recent review of the Public and Licensed Access schemes.
The review found that although both schemes are working well and
provide a valuable service, improvements to the rules governing the
schemes could result in a better service for clients and deliver
greater access to justice for the wider public.
Our latest consultation proposes a number of recommendations
including:
- Simplifying the existing rules - making them less prescriptive
and more proportionate;
- The continuation of the current approach, where Public and
Licensed Access work is not subject to the "cab-rank rule". This
follows a review of current arrangements; and
- The possibility of changing the Scope of Practice Rules to
allow some charities and businesses to instruct barristers without
having to use the Public or Licensed Access schemes.
We are keen to hear the thoughts of all barristers, as any
practising barrister could be instructed under licensed access.
About one third of barristers are authorised to receive public
access instructions.
Please share your views with us. The consultation closes on
Friday, 15 September 2017.
