More UK barristers experience harassment

The increase is concerning, the Bar Council says

More UK barristers experience harassment

More and more barristers in the UK are experiencing bullying, a new study has found.

Among 4,092 usable responses from barristers surveyed by The Bar Council, 21% of employed and 12% of self-employed barristers said they have been harassed or bullied in the last two years, The Law Society Gazette reported. This is an increase of 3% for employed barristers and 5% for self-employed barristers from the 2013 survey of the representative body of barristers in England and Wales.

Among the respondents, 53% said that gender was the reason for unfavourable treatment, up 5% from the previous survey. Those in criminal practice experienced more harassment or bullying (18%), compared to those in chancery and commercial practice (8%).

“The results are a cause for concern and cannot be ignored. As a profession, we must do much better. We do not and will not tolerate harassment and bullying at the bar,” said Andrew Walker QC, chair of The Bar Council.

“The Bar Council already offers a confidential helpline, training and other support to individuals and chambers. If any members of the Bar are facing harassment or being bullied, we urge them to use these services,” he said.

 

Related stories:
Women now form majority of practising solicitors in England and Wales
Most UK court users are happy with and trust HMCTS

 

Recent articles & video

Lander & Rogers launches workplace law elective at QUT

CE Family Law's Louise Hunter had an Erin Brockovich for a grandma

WFW picks up win at 2024 Australian ADR Awards

Three additions enhance G+T's partnership

American Bar Association releases guidance to prevent conflict with unretained clients

UK bar survey reveals one in five pupils face bullying and discrimination

Most Read Articles

Hamilton Locke partner transitions to Lander & Rogers

Global law firm Kirkland & Ellis advises on multi-billion-dollar merger in the natural gas sector

Two Australian lawyers ascend to partner in major HFW promotions round

ALRC releases anti-discrimination, religious educational institution law recommendations