Barristers will be able to opt to have allegations of professional misconduct handled without a formal hearing under a new streamlined complaints system to be introduced by the Bar Standards Board (BSB).


The move is just one of the changes to be made to the bar's complaints and disciplinary processes following a consultation by the BSB.



The changes will see the BSB's complaints committee increase its lay membership and expand the range of sanctions it can apply - including raising the maximum fine it can levy from £5,000 to £15,000.



The announcement follows a strategic review of the BSB's processes carried out by the former complaints commissioner, Robert Behrens, in July 2007.



BSB chairwoman Ruth Evans said the changes will 'make a good system even better'.



Ros Gardner, interim commissioner, said: 'The work and implementation is a very positive measure and takes forward most points raised in Robert Behrens's strategic review.'



Work is under way to adjust the Code of Conduct to implement the reforms, which are expected to be in place by December.



Catherine Baksi