“Don't take this the wrong way but I hope I never see you again.†This is the valedictory that I have received many times from the tearfully grateful and the plain relieved. I don't suppose that architects, doctors, plumbers or roadside mechanics get quite the same expression of thanks. It all rather sums up the absolute nature of what we do: the moment that the jury returns with its verdict and the foreman is asked to “please standâ€Â, the whole room holds its breath. Whether prosecuting or defending, it is an incredibly tense, awful, unbearable moment. I used to be superstitious – writing the 'g' in my notebook and wondering whether I would by some miracle be putting an 'n' in front of it. Now I just close my notebook and pretend that it is not happening. I don't know what the judge feels about a verdict – perhaps the judge really is above it all – but I suspect that where it is possible to have formed a view there is the occasional tingle of nerves.
Building relationships is essential to the success of every law firm and gaining contacts by networking can be simple and enjoyable, says Jennifer Overhaus
The military coup that overthrew the legitimately elected government of Fiji two years ago remains a threat to the rule of law and to the independence of lawyers, says Sara Chandler
The SFO's new guidelines for dealing with overseas corruption contain admirable aims, but it remains to be seen how successful implementing an American model will be, says Hassan Khan
Greater cooperation between the parties to family proceedings is required to give full effect to the latest interim guidance and reduce delays, says DJ Michael Buckley
Fresh recruitment drives and further investment in technology are sure signs that South West firms are ready to come out of the downturn and tackle the Clementi reforms. Jean-Yves Gilg reports
Robert Heslett, president of the Law Society, has said that the MoJ's latest plans for legal aid cuts are so deeply flawed, full of ambiguities and contradictory statements that the society is not “reasonably able to understand quite what the proposals areâ€.
