Press releases and news
Find all the latest major announcements, breaking news, press releases and commentary from the Bar Council on issues affecting the barristers' profession, justice and the rule of law.
The purpose of the Bar Council's press releases are to represent and promote the Bar nationally as well as globally, bring its voice to the public domain and defend the rule of law.
For more information about any press release or news item, call contact Press Office on 020 7092 8175 or email [email protected]
Race Panel co-chairs win diversity champion award
Laurie-Anne Power KC and Simon Regis CBE were recognised at the Legal 500 ESG Awards 2025
First proposed increase to civil legal aid in 30 years welcome, but much more needed to rebuild the sector
The Bar Council's consultation highlights that the proposed increase falls far behind inflation and more will be needed.
Bar Council Chair urges barristers to report inappropriate behaviours
The call follows a cluster of tribunal findings of inappropriate behaviour of a sexual nature
Tackling violence against women: Kim Johnson MP joins Bar Council to hear about the role of the courts
The Bar Council highlighted that the family courts are an integral part of the solution to tackle violence against women and girls at a roundtable discussion.
Private prosecution safeguards needed to ensure power to prosecute not abused, Bar Council says
Welcoming the government consultation into private prosecutions and the Single Justice Procedure, the Bar Council said both have led to miscarriages of justice and shaken public confidence in the criminal justice system.
Sitting days increase positive step in long list of measures needed to restore criminal justice
The Bar Council welcomes the increase but says that if we are to reduce the delays and impact on victims, witnesses, and defendants, there should be no limit on sitting days.
New Arbitration Act will strengthen UK’s leading position
Arbitration is worth billions to the British economy, says Bar Chair
Bar Council response to increase to rates for counsel undertaking work for central government
The rates for the Attorney General’s civil panel counsel have been increased for the first time in more than 20 years.
Politicians should protect the independence of the judiciary, says Chair of the Bar
Barbara Mills KC issues comment in support of the Lady Chief Justice
The cab rank rule is the profession's cornerstone, Bar Council says
Bar Chair Barbara Mills KC has reiterated that it is always wrong to associate lawyers with their clients.
Sentencing review: no more quick wins - invest to tackle crime long term
Part 1 of the sentencing review report echoes the Bar Council's concerns about how we got here and the scale of the problem - it's clear radical thinking is required.
Investment in probation step in the right direction, Bar Council says
The Bar Council said the announcement recognises that we need a properly resourced regime that reduces crime and increases public confidence and safety in our justice system.
Bar Council supports IBA call for all states to oppose US sanctions against the ICC
The International Bar Association has denounced the sanctions
Juryless trials ‘not the answer’ to court crisis, barristers warn
The Bar Council has objected to the introduction of intermediate courts and made alternative recommendations, including a new model for diversion, in its submission to the Leveson review of criminal justice.
Family Pathfinder court expansion welcome
The MoJ has announced Pathfinder courts will be extended across Wales and West Yorkshire