Maintaining the public's confidence is paramount, says new CILEx chief

Legal aid cuts, increased tribunal fees and reductions to available legal advice is having a harsh impact on how justice works

CILEx's new chief executive has said that working in the 'public interest' is her top priority and that she wants to work with the next government on issues affecting the justice system.

In her first public statement as chief executive, Mandie Lavin has reached out to the wider professional community to collaborate and work together in the public interest.

"Maintaining the confidence of the public in our work as professionals is paramount," said Lavin. "I want to see chartered legal executives and CILEx practitioners working together with their colleagues in other professions to provide the best possible service to the public."

She added: "This extends to us as professional associations as well; particularly in the legal sector where we have a great opportunity with so many new leaders taking up posts. We can use this unique moment to work together and think creatively on how to serve the public and the profession as a whole."

Commenting on the upcoming General Election, Lavin said she wanted CILEx to work together with the next government, as "they will undoubtedly pursue further changes to the justice system, and they must bring the legal profession with them as they do".

She continued: "Cuts to legal aid, increasing tribunal fees, and reduced legal advice availability are having a harsh impact on the operation of our courts and how justice works in this country. I want us to work together to overcome these obstacles and ensure the public are able to access justice in a timely, affordable and meaningful way."

Lavin also explained that among her priorities was a drive for innovation within the profession so CILEx could meet the challenges of a quickly changing marketplace: "Recently, legal businesses have faced tough times, with an unrelenting pace of change. This year will see the first chartered legal executive run law firms, which will, over time, shake up the market further and provide greater choice for consumers.

"Like any new business, these firms will need to be creative and innovative, and I will ensure that CILEx supports our members in these ventures. CILEx also has a wider responsibility towards the legal community as a qualifications provider. I want to ensure legal businesses and aspiring students can continue to rely on our qualifications to be rigorous, affordable and fit-for-purpose."

John van der Luit-Drummond is legal reporter for Solicitors Journal