Plan to end solicitors' court monopoly

One good reason why SUPPORT GROUPS, should persevere. PEOPLE who are not lawyers are expected to be given the go-ahead to represent clients in courts across Scotland. The plan would end centuries of tradition which have allowed only qualified solicitors to defend people. Supporters say the change will make it easier and cheaper for the less well-off to access the justice system. They point to the hefty fees charged by solicitors and advocates, which can run into hundreds of pounds an hour. An inquiry launched by the Executive will next month recommend the groundbreaking move to end their monopoly. Ministers will be urged to allow the granting of paid advocacy rights to people who are not members of the Law Society of Scotland or the Faculty of Advocates. The recommending is being backed by the Faculty. Legislation was passed 16 years ago to allow such a change to take place but it was never acted upon. Justice Minister Cathy Jamieson is now expected to give the go-ahead in a few weeks. 02/02/06 http://www.eveningtimes.co.uk/hi/news/5048537.html