The log-jam blocking publication of the new solicitors' code of conduct has been broken in a move that could see the end of a drafting process begun more than six years ago.


Law Society Regulation Chief Executive Antony Townsend said the last major sticking point preventing the Legal Services Consultative Panel from recommending approval of the draft code - differences of opinion over rule 11 (litigation and advocacy) - has now been resolved. The panel is a non-departmental public body that advises the Lord Chancellor on legal services.



However, he urged caution, warning that there had as yet been no reaction from the Department for Constitutional Affairs to the new draft of rule 1 (core duties).



A board spokeswoman said the new code could go before the board later this month and the Law Society Council in December. It will then require approval by the Master of the Rolls and the Lord Chancellor before coming into force.