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]
Bar Council response to High Court ruling on the misuse of artificial intelligence
The Bar Council has responded to a High Court judgement which emphasises the dangers of the misuse by lawyers of artificial intelligence.
Legal Aid cyber incident – updates for the Bar
The Legal Aid Agency has been the subject of a serious cyber incident. This page provides updates for the Bar
New report reinforces perilous state of criminal justice, Bar Council says
A new report from the Institute for Fiscal Studies has found that Crown Court productivity had recovered to post-pandemic levels by the end of last year, yet the record high backlog continues to rise.
Channel 4 News item on sexual harassment at the Bar
The Bar Council is signposting to sources of support
Tribute to Timothy Dutton CBE KC, former Chair of the Bar
Barbara Mills KC says he leaves a great legacy to the Bar
BSB change of course on equality rules is the right decision
The Bar Council has welcomed the decision not to press ahead with proposals announced last year
Solidarity and support for the Istanbul Bar Association and its leaders
Bar Council calls for the withdrawal of all legal proceedings against the Istanbul Bar Association and its leaders.
‘Time to be bold’ Bar Council responds to final sentencing report
The Bar Council has urged the government to act on the reforms proposed in the independent sentencing review, many of which reflect the radical proposals the barristers' representative body put forward.
Children can’t wait for family court delays – Bar Council responds to NAO report
We're calling for greater investment in the family justice system
Legal Aid Agency cyber incident – update for the Bar
The Ministry of Justice has confirmed that the Legal Aid Agency has been the subject of a serious cyber incident. This is an update on the situation for the Bar.
Top judges, barristers and solicitors race 10km to raise money for the London Legal Support Trust
The Bar v the Bench race is back for another year, this time with solicitors entering the fray.
Heidi Stonecliffe KC elected as Bar Council Vice Chair for 2026
Heidi Stonecliffe KC is the first employed barrister elected to the role
"Mutual benefits" to collaboration between UK and Indian legal professionals, says Bar Council
The Bar Council of India has announced changes to regulations that will enable foreign lawyers to practice in India.
International safety convention offers new protections for lawyers
The Council of Europe’s convention is an international instrument dedicated to protecting the freedom and independence of the global legal profession.