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03 July 2008
Issue: 7328 / Categories: Opinion
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Dear Auntie

Agony Column

Occasional advice for the judiciary and lawyers on matters of the mind, heart and (though auntie is a bit dodgy on it) the law

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Pick of the Week

Q The Courts Service has gone crazy. Most Crown Courts and combined courts in England and Wales have had Wi-Fi facilities installed. Is the existence of the facility at the court, before which I have to appear next month to show cause why a wasted costs order should not be made against me, sufficient ground for me to refuse to appear in person? Courtney Combes, Barley Chambers Annexe, Leeds

A Absolutely. This is a most dangerous development. One of the alleged benefits of the installation is that lawyers will be able to utilise their time more effectively between cases. The truth is probably that Wi-Fi will be relied on as justification for yet further cuts in lawyers' publicly funded fees pending death from radiation. Forward the judge a few pages from www.energyfields.org and tell him that you will participate in the hearing

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MOVERS & SHAKERS

Flint Bishop—Charlotte Harris

Flint Bishop—Charlotte Harris

Sheffield expansion continues with appointment of commercial property partner

Browne Jacobson—Paul Duggan

Browne Jacobson—Paul Duggan

Browne Jacobson strengthens banking and finance practice with latest partner appointment Paul Duggan

Ward Hadaway—Chris Piggott

Ward Hadaway—Chris Piggott

Employment partner joins Ward Hadaway

NEWS
Mr Justice Nicklin’s decision to order costs on an indemnity basis may be a ‘significant win’ but it’s still ‘far from game, set and match’ for Associated Newspapers, a former costs judge has said
The Law Society RFC Festival of Sport returns next month, bringing together legal and financial services professionals for one of the sector’s largest annual sporting events
Legal aid deserts leave almost one in four without adequate access to justice
The Solicitors Regulation Authority (SRA) has warned solicitors and law firms that using artificial intelligence does not alter their professional obligations, amid concerns over inaccurate legal material and client confidentiality
Can a meticulously maintained spreadsheet turn a couple’s informal financial arrangements into legally enforceable obligations? 
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