It will be extremely sad if the recent public comments (see below) openly criticising solicitor-advocates, made on behalf of the criminal Bar, are allowed to cause hostility and divisiveness between the two sides of the profession. There is a need for calm and reconciliation – and for all of us in the criminal justice system to work together to retain and promote its reputation around the world.
Of course there are good and weak advocates, irrespective of whether they are barristers or solicitors. Solicitor-advocates are now accepted in the higher courts; rightly so. Many are well respected. The CPS published policy is that they will carry out more in-house advocacy. We all need to accept the present position and work with it.
