header-logo header-logo

25 February 2016 / Dominic Regan
Issue: 7688 / Categories: Opinion , Costs , Budgeting
printer mail-detail

Perception matters

Jackson: Dominic Regan returns to set the record straight

Last week I faithfully recounted the objections voiced to me by practitioners about the latest Jackson reform proposals (see “Is Jackson's legacy under pressure?”). The core recommendation was a fixed costs regime applicable across the board in cases worth up to £250,000. Since I wrote that article I have received information and representations from a variety of sources, including members of the judiciary, which cast a different light upon common perceptions. Sir Rupert, quite rightly, remains aloof from the current arguments.

Practicalities

On a practical note, it is evident that nothing will change this year. The involvement of Mr Gove in the referendum campaign will be a major distraction for him. Soundings and consultation are recognised as a pre-requisite of change on this scale.

Independence

Anyone who thought that Lord Justice Jackson was speaking on behalf of the government is wrong. He is utterly independent. This was the judge brave enough in

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

NLJ Career Profile: Nick McDonnell, Kain Knight

NLJ Career Profile: Nick McDonnell, Kain Knight

Nick McDonnell of Kain Knight reflects on an unexpected legal career, his drive to support vulnerable clients and the surprising pleasures of watching nothing happen

Mayo Wynne Baxter—Angela Arnold

Mayo Wynne Baxter—Angela Arnold

Mayo Wynne Baxter strengthens property team with new partner appointment

WilmerHale—Jeremy Kosky & Charlie Lightfoot

WilmerHale—Jeremy Kosky & Charlie Lightfoot

WilmerHale expands London disputes capabilities with addition of two leading partners

NEWS
Lawyers have welcomed the Lord Chancellor’s reverse-ferret on jury reforms, but expressed ‘serious concerns’ about the decision to exclude fraud trials
From ‘rats in the robing room’ to ‘overworked’ judges and a shortage of court staff, barristers have aired their concerns about the state of the justice system
The use of agentic artificial intelligence (AI) poses ‘significant risks’ across the justice system, public services and government, and current regulation is ‘poorly suited’ to control it, experts have warned
The solicitors’ regulator has paused controversial plans to exclude owner-managers from compliance officer roles
The government has launched a £16m legal support grant to support 48 frontline legal advice organisations supporting people facing eviction, problem debt, benefit disputes and family breakdown
back-to-top-scroll