Law Society’s Gazette, July 1970

Random Ramblings

It is clear to all who have read these articles of mine that I am a traditionalist, and why not? In a rapidly changing world it is good for all of us to try and slow down and remember that reform for reform’s sake is not always for the better. The last government was responsible for a good many traditions being abolished or brought into disuse or even disrepute, but I have high hopes that with our present government we shall see a restoration of the dignity which has always characterised the legal profession and all connected with it.

I am not claiming it as a record but in a case with which I am currently concerned, the judge became appointed to the Court of Appeal, one of the QCs was elevated to the High Court Bench, and one of the junior counsel took silk. Such are the hazards facing solicitors and it was ever thus.

Barristers are well able to look after themselves or rather their clerks look after the barristers. But I sometimes wonder if solicitors are always fair in the way of fees. Often a conference will be had with counsel over a point involving thousands of pounds and the fee for half an hour will be two guineas. I doubt if many solicitors feel sufficiently generous to offer more. Will the time not come when both solicitors’ and counsels’ fees are charged on a contingency basis instead of for actual work done? There is much to be said for the operation of a swings and roundabouts principle. If we are to survive the public must sooner rather than later be educated to expect to be charged the rate for the job.

GA Dodsworth