The Bar Standards Board (BSB) has proposed new equality rules in a consultation document to provide equal opportunities for all barrister and aspiring barristers. The primary suggested change is an amendment to core duty eight, which currently states that barristers “must not discriminate unlawfully against any person”. The BSB seeks to replace this with barristers “ must act in a way that advances equality, diversity and inclusion”.
Ward Hadaway, a leading full-service UK law firm, has announced a record financial performance for the 2023/24 period, with revenue increasing by 7% to £48 million. The stellar financial year was driven by the law firm's strong growth across its Leeds, Manchester and Newcastle offices in a range of practice areas, highlighting its financial stability and commitment to sustainable growth.
Womble Bond Dickinson and Lewis Roca are among the latest law firms to pursue rapid expansion by merging. The “powerhouse” merger will offer clients enhanced capabilities across practices and sectors, along with access to a broad geographic network.
A recent Legal Needs survey published by the Law Society, found that two-thirds of people have experienced at least one legal issue in the last four years but only half obtained professional help.
Magic circle law firm Linklaters LLP has topped Stonewall’s Workplace Equality Index, with other law firms, including Clifford Chance, Gateley Legal and Irwin Mitchell LLP, also making the list.
A growing number of City law firms are now offering in-house pupillages, providing aspiring barristers with an alternative to chambers-based training.
More than 50 City law firms have joined a new apprenticeship initiative, City Century, which aims to encourage the hiring of at least 100 new solicitor apprentices in London within the next year.
Lawyers reported significant benefits from using generative AI, including improved workload management and efficiency, according to a new report by Ashurst LLP.
