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Guide to barristers' conduct consultation paper released

13 March, 2009

The Bar Standards Board has today released an important consultation paper as part of its comprehensive review of the Code of Conduct for barristers.

This consultation paper puts forward proposed Conduct Rules, underpinned by seven core duties, which will set the standards of proper professional conduct for members of the Bar. The Board believes that this approach creates a more user-friendly, accessible and clear set of professional rules for both barristers and users of their services.

The paper has been put together by a working group comprising barristers, lay people and others outside the profession under the chairmanship of the former President of the General Medical Council, Sir Donald Irvine. Each core duty relates to a fundamental principle of professional conduct. These range from a duty to act with integrity and honesty to a duty not to discriminate improperly in relation to any person.

It is proposed that each core duty should be supported by secondary rules and guidance which amplify and illustrate their scope and purpose.

Commenting on the proposed new Rules Sir Donald Irvine said:‘Our task was to produce a fresh approach to the professional rules for barristers, which will be more readily understood by both practitioners and those outside the profession.

‘An approach based on core duties has been found to be effective by many other regulatory bodies and there is a very strong case for doing the same in relation to the Bar.

‘We are keen not to be seen as trying to re-invent the wheel and recognise that the current Code is seen as a fundamental tool in maintaining high professional standards at the Bar. The core duties provide an easily recognised starting point for all, while building on what is already within the Code.

‘This is an important consultation exercise which raises a number of crucial issues in respect of professional regulation. We very much hope that the profession, stakeholders and consumers will provide their comments.’

Conduct Rules: A Core Duty Approach to Regulation at the Bar, is available from the Bar Council Press Office on 020 7222 2525. Responses are invited no later than 1 June 2009.

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Guide to barristers' conduct consultation paper released