Barrister’s records

The barrister is also required to keep a record of all cases in which he made or received a referral to or from his employer or recognized body (rule 208(b)). When undertaking this review, the Board will wish to be assured that greater problems than envisaged have not arisen, that the safeguards are working and can be monitored satisfactorily, and that the regulatory objectives continue to be advanced by allowing dual practice. The records should be kept for a minimum of 6 years from each referral.

Particular attention is drawn to the fact that the Board intends to review the rules and guidance for dual practice in the light of experience at the expiry of 2 years from the implementation of the rule changes. Barristers should therefore not make changes to their career structure on the assumption that dual practice will necessarily remain permitted under the Code.