Handbook version 4.5 takes account of new Internal Governance Rules (IGRs) set by the Legal Services Board. It contains amendments to the Disciplinary Tribunal Rules to enable tribunals to rely on wasted costs orders as proof of conduct, and to clarify that directions judges have the discretion to make costs orders.
The BSB has also made clear that barristers have a duty to co-operate with their regulators, including all relevant regulators and ombudsman schemes.
A BSB spokesperson said: ‘I am pleased that this new version of the Handbook reflects the important changes recently made to the Internal Governance Rules. Together with the other amendments we have announced today, this will further enhance the independence and the effectiveness of our regulation.’
