That hoary debate about the relative status of solicitors and barristers – and whether there is a hierarchy – reared up again this week. A chambers (outside London) was the unwitting catalyst.
A LinkedIn post from solicitor Heledd Wyn prompted plenty of discussion – 593 comments and counting – after she screenshotted the chambers website’s FAQs. This guide to legal terms addressed whether a barrister was ‘higher up’ than a solicitor, answering: ‘A barrister is generally considered more senior within the British legal system.’
Cue outrage from solicitors, who were quick to point out the folly of such a sentiment.
The chambers which posted the offending piece explained to Obiter that it had been uploaded in error by a third-party website provider, which compiled a Q&A section without its knowledge. The comment was removed as soon as the chambers was made aware and does not, we should clarify, represent its own view.
‘We of course hold barristers and solicitors in equal high regard and we would never want anyone to think otherwise, let alone start a debate about status and hierarchy,’ said a spokesperson. ‘We deeply value the collaborative relationship between solicitors and barristers and regret any misunderstanding. We remain committed to the highest standard of professionalism and mutual respect.’
No harm done really, just a little hot air amid the ether. A timely reminder, though, to check your firm’s website content before it goes up.
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