News in brief
A streamlined mandatory accreditation system for solicitors who practise as advocates in the higher courts has been announced by the Solicitors Regulation Authority (SRA) Board. The SRA originally proposed that the new system should be voluntary but changed its mind after protests from some stakeholders. Dr Jonathan Spencer, chair of the SRA’s education and training committee, says: “We have finalised a scheme which removes unnecessary barriers while maintaining high standards of advocacy.” they don’t have to have it outside should make it easier to comply.”