header-logo header-logo

07 April 2016 / Catherine Dixon
Issue: 7693 / Categories: Opinion , Brexit , EU
printer mail-detail

Brexit brainstorming

Catherine Dixon underlines the importance of making an informed decision over Britain’s future with the EU

Let me start by saying that the Law Society does not have a position on Brexit—either in or out.

Solicitors—like everyone else—will make their minds up on Brexit based on a whole range of considerations, including business but also taking into account political views and those of family and friends.

In 2015 the Law Society decided that part of our role as the professional body for solicitors was to take a look at what the impact might be for the legal sector if the British people decide on 23 June to remain within the EU or to leave it.

Short term v long term implications

In the short term some solicitors could enjoy their widely trailed “Brexit bonanza” as agreements are unpicked, contracts altered, new domestic rules written and the legal complexities of any changed relationship with the EU unravelled.

However, based on an independent assessment we commissioned by Oxford Economics, in the longer term a UK withdrawal is likely

If you are not a subscriber, subscribe now to read this content
If you are already a subscriber sign in
...or Register for two weeks' free access to subscriber content

MOVERS & SHAKERS

DAC Beachcroft—Paul Brehony

DAC Beachcroft—Paul Brehony

Commercial disputes practice expands with partner hire in London

Ward Hadaway—Maria Coster

Ward Hadaway—Maria Coster

Partner appointed to lead family and matrimonial department in Leeds

Slater Heelis—Helen Marsh

Slater Heelis—Helen Marsh

Commercial property team expands in Manchester with partner appointment

NEWS
Financial protections for domestic abuse victims would be strengthened and cohabiting couples be given inheritance and separation rights, under historic government proposals
Doctors and nurses could be sued for mistakes made by the artificial intelligence (AI) equipment they use to treat patients, researchers have warned
The law sector has been chosen as the testing ground for the government’s AI Growth Labs—speeding up development, testing and regulatory compliance so software can be market-ready more quickly
A range of options beyond burial, cremation and burial at sea could become legally available, under Law Commission recommendations
Artificial intelligence (AI) legal assistants will be deployed to cut delays in the Crown Court, ministers have announced
back-to-top-scroll