Court filming plea
An influential Tory backbencher has urged the government to keep an ‘open mind’ about allowing witnesses to be filmed in court. John Whittingdale, chairman of the culture, media and sport select committee, told a House of Commons debate that cameras would be discreet and help to ensure open justice.
Justice minister Jonathan Djanogly said filming will be restricted solely to judges’ verdicts to protect victims, witnesses and jurors.
Credit extended to law firms
The Credit Services Association has voted in favour of allowing law firms to join its association in a new category of affiliate members. President Sara de Tute said: ‘There has never been a more important time to present a unified voice across all areas of debt collection, and that includes a new volume player in the shape of law firms.’
Welsh panel winners
The Welsh government has chosen five firms for specialist legal work on property, commercial, litigation, employment and environmental law. Browne Jacobson, Eversheds, Geldards, Hugh James and Morgan Cole were selected after a tendering process.
Greenwoods merger
Regional firm Greenwoods has announced a merger with Cambridge-based commercial specialist Walker Wallis. The combined firm will operate under the Greenwoods name with Walker Wallis directors Duncan Walker and Huw Wallis installed as directors and co-owners.
Matrix funds free advice
Hackney Community Law Centre in London is to pilot a project setting up ‘law shops’ giving free legal advice at local venues. Matrix Chambers has provided launch funds.
DAS in the black
Legal expenses insurer DAS has reported a pre-tax profit of £9.74m for 2011 compared with a £470,000 loss in 2010. Turnover rose from £139m to £161m. The group has applied to become an alternative business structure.
Repossessions down
The number of homes repossessed fell to 36,200 in 2011, the lowest number since 2007, the Council of Mortgage Lenders has reported. However, it warned that rising unemployment could cause the number to rise in 2012.
Daniel to head charity
Legal advice charity the Access to Justice Foundation has appointed Ruth Daniel, formerly a solicitor at Charles Russell, as its first chief executive.
LSC tender deadline
The family tender process opened on 6 February and the deadline for receipt of tenders is noon on 20 February. Applications must be made through the Legal Services Commission online eTendering system. Those that were successful in the recent family tender exercise need not apply - only those who were previously unsuccessful or who seek a licence-only family contract.
There will be no further opportunities to obtain a legal aid contract until tenders for the reduced scope of legal aid open in the summer for commencement in April 2013.
