Immigration lawyers have not been singled out for a special version of accreditation (see [2005] Gazette, 10 February, 18). There are compulsory accreditation schemes in place for several fields of work - for example, the criminal litigation accreditation scheme, and some forms of mental health tribunal work.


The connecting factor of the schemes is the fact that their client groups comprise people who are likely to be even more vulnerable and disadvantaged than other clients who seek help. In the case of immigration, many of the recipients of advice are of minority ethnic origin, while others will face language difficulties. This scheme seeks to ensure that they and others receive proper service and quality advice.


Contrary to the impression given by the article, there was practitioner involvement at every stage of the design of the accreditation standards. Practitioners set and mark the assessments.


The Law Society is monitoring the scheme and - as with all accreditation schemes - will in due course review its operation in the light of practitioners' experience. However, the principle of ensuring that clients get the quality of advice they are entitled to expect is paramount.



Janet Paraskeva, chief executive, the Law Society, London