Lawyers in England and Wales could soon face competition from commercial attorneys, a group of legal representatives operating mainly in the field of construction law whose origins lie in Scotland.

The Association of Commercial Attorneys recently won a near 20-year battle for rights of audience in Scottish courts and rights to conduct litigation, under provisions extending such rights beyond the existing legal profession.

Four association members have been granted practising certificates. From this week they are permitted to appear in the sheriff courts, as Scottish solicitors are able to do.

The liberalisation measures were originally enacted in 1990 but lay dormant on the statute book until 2007 when they were formally commenced.

A spokesman for the association said it is now considering opening a branch in England. He added: ‘We plan to make an application to the bar in England and Wales for the right to instruct counsel in construction arbitration and adjudication matters.’