Journalists and legal bloggers attending family courts - A workshop for lawyers

Who Should Attend?

In light of the Legal Blogging Pilot implemented through PD36J, Lucy Reed of our Family & Divorce team is delivering this workshop on behalf of The Transparency Project. Transparency issues are once again on the family justice agenda, following the recent announcement of a full scale Transparency Review by the President of the Family Division, the issue of draft guidance for consultation around issues of applications by journalists or legal bloggers to relax reporting restrictions (see further here) and calls for independent public inquiry in the Family Courts. Whilst family lawyers don’t encounter journalists and legal bloggers regularly, it is important to be ready to deal with issues arising from their attendance when they do pop up.

The workshop is intended for lawyers who are interested in brushing up their ‘transparency’ knowledge – whether with a view to taking part in the scheme themselves, or so they feel better prepared for responding to attendances by legal bloggers or journalists in cases where they are instructed. We know that for most advocates the attendance of a journalist at hearings is a rare event, and often catches people by surprise. Even more so where legal bloggers are concerned. What is the law and procedure? How should you advise your client, and how should you respond to any application these reporters might make?

To find out more information about this event, please visit The Transparency Project website here.

Although The Transparency Project are not charging for tickets, they do invite those wishing to attend to make a donation when they purchase a ticket. Any donations will be applied to furthering the work of The Transparency Project. Please note that donations are not refundable.

Registration from 5.00 for a 5.30pm start. The event will run until 7.30pm, with an opportunity for informal discussion after.

This event is made possible through the kind sponsorship of Bloomsbury Professional Family Law and the support of St John’s Chambers. Lucy Reed is a member of St John’s Chambers Family Practice Group.