Often it is necessary to try to de-mystify the court process as much as possible. Often one of the things that worries a client most is where they stand, what they should say to the judge and what they should wear. So, particularly with young or vulnerable defendants, I often go through the whole trial process from arraignment to verdict and what happens if the verdict is guilty. This also helps them ask the question that they don't always want to hear answered: will I go to prison if I am convicted?
Protection for vulnerable adults is under increased scrutiny but what exactly does 'vulnerable' mean, and do the safeguards go far enough, asks David Hewitt
New HIP regulations, combined with important changes in local authority and personal search charges, are set to make this a seismic spring of change, says Andrew Lloyd
Lesley Davey reviews the European Commission's policy on abuse of dominant position, block exemptions, the application of State aid rules in the context of the economic crisis, and the OFT's new leniency guidance
Paul Stanley considers whether the compulsory retirement age ruling is compatible with UK regulations, the binding force of unpublished rules and the right to indemnity under the Commercial Agents Directive
