All articles by Roger Smith
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OpinionSQE's steep learning curve
Technology must be embraced if the one-time ‘superexam’ is to be fit for purpose.
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OpinionRights & wrongs: The limits of free speech
As Ken Livingstone demonstrated, some views may be lawfully but unacceptably expressed.
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OpinionWorld weary
Is global governance intruding on our liberal democracy, and if so what is to be done?
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OpinionPassing the test on terror
Terrorism legislation creates great tension between security and human rights, but we got the balance right.
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Opinion‘The law is above you’
In Belhaj the judiciary once again weighed in to hold the executive to account.
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OpinionChanging offices
Brexit is not the only constitutional issue of our time – the roles of attorney general and lord chancellor must be addressed.
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OpinionTransforming justice – beyond the bombast
One hopes the MoJ can implement its proposals for transforming justice more adroitly than it has articulated them.
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OpinionConstitutional monstrosity
Whatever the fate of Phil Shiner, the Legal Aid Agency has to go.
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OpinionBOOK REVIEW: Trials – On Death Row in Pakistan
A thoughtful reflection on the legal system of an important country in the modern geo-political world.
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OpinionSinking ship of state
Alongside the clamour over Brexit we need a calmer discussion on reforming our constitution.
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OpinionExtremism: criminalising sceptics
Government measures to outlaw non-violent extremism are both unworkable and undesirable.
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OpinionRefuting a classic slur
London’s toxic mayoral election highlighted the dangers of identifying solicitors with their clients.
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OpinionBOOK REVIEW: Five Ideas to Fight For
A reminder of why law, human rights and civil liberties matter and how lawyers can play a vital role in their defence.
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OpinionLegal training: steep learning curve
We need to reset the debate on the future of solicitor education.
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OpinionAn intellectually sloppy AG
Jeremy Wright’s speech on the role of the attorney general achieved the advocate’s nightmare.
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OpinionBOOK REVIEW: Justice Denied
A readable account of nigh-on 70 miscarriage cases, even if the format encourages omissions.
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OpinionCivil courts reform: learning from abroad
Briggs LJ needs to dig out his passport and investigate how overseas pioneers are reforming the civil courts.
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OpinionWake up and smell the coffee
Lawyers can learn a lot from the irresistible rise of Starbucks and its rivals.
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OpinionGrayling just didn’t get it
There’s more to the sorry saga of the criminal courts charge than a dud policy implemented by a hapless lord chancellor.