*/
Male barristers are more likely to have complaints about them referred for disciplinary action than female barristers, according to a report from the Bar’s regulator.
The Bar Standards Board’s report, Complaints at the Bar, which analysed complaints data between 2012-14, also showed that male barristers are more frequently the subject of an external complaint than female barristers.
While BME (black and minority ethnic) barristers were more likely to be the subject of an internal complaint and to have a complaint closed without investigation than white barristers, they faced disciplinary hearings more frequently.
Past research also indicated that male and ethnic minority barristers were subject to a disproportionate number of complaints.
Commenting on the report’s publication in February, the BSB’s director of professional conduct, Sara Jagger, said: ‘It is pleasing that the report indicates there is no significant difference in complaints-handling between BME and white barristers.
‘We do, however, need to look more carefully at the new findings in relation to the potential issue of gender bias and ensure that we take action to address this.’
She said the public and profession can have confidence in the process’s fairness.
Male barristers are more likely to have complaints about them referred for disciplinary action than female barristers, according to a report from the Bar’s regulator.
The Bar Standards Board’s report, Complaints at the Bar, which analysed complaints data between 2012-14, also showed that male barristers are more frequently the subject of an external complaint than female barristers.
While BME (black and minority ethnic) barristers were more likely to be the subject of an internal complaint and to have a complaint closed without investigation than white barristers, they faced disciplinary hearings more frequently.
Past research also indicated that male and ethnic minority barristers were subject to a disproportionate number of complaints.
Commenting on the report’s publication in February, the BSB’s director of professional conduct, Sara Jagger, said: ‘It is pleasing that the report indicates there is no significant difference in complaints-handling between BME and white barristers.
‘We do, however, need to look more carefully at the new findings in relation to the potential issue of gender bias and ensure that we take action to address this.’
She said the public and profession can have confidence in the process’s fairness.
Now is the time to tackle inappropriate behaviour at the Bar as well as extend our reach and collaboration with organisations and individuals at home and abroad
A comparison – Dan Monaghan, Head of DWF Chambers, invites two viewpoints
And if not, why not? asks Louise Crush of Westgate Wealth Management
Marie Law, Head of Toxicology at AlphaBiolabs, discusses the many benefits of oral fluid drug testing for child welfare and protection matters
To mark International Women’s Day, Louise Crush of Westgate Wealth Management looks at how financial planning can help bridge the gap
Casey Randall of AlphaBiolabs answers some of the most common questions regarding relationship DNA testing for court
Maria Scotland and Niamh Wilkie report from the Bar Council’s 2024 visit to the United Arab Emirates exploring practice development opportunities for the England and Wales family Bar
Marking Neurodiversity Week 2025, an anonymous barrister shares the revelations and emotions from a mid-career diagnosis with a view to encouraging others to find out more
David Wurtzel analyses the outcome of the 2024 silk competition and how it compares with previous years, revealing some striking trends and home truths for the profession
Save for some high-flyers and those who can become commercial arbitrators, it is generally a question of all or nothing but that does not mean moving from hero to zero, says Andrew Hillier
