SOLICITORS AND THE FAMILY DIVISION PROCEDURES

Early day motion 11, tabled 3 December 2008 by John Hemming (Liberal Democrat). Signed by 16 members.

That this House notes the comments of a senior social worker that meetings have been held during which solicitors acting for parents have discussed how to undermine the cases of their clients; further notes that there are many odd cases in which solicitors fail to oppose care proceedings or accept that the section 31 threshold has been met notwithstanding the opposition of their clients; recognises that reporting and obtaining the investigation of such behaviour outwith parliamentary proceedings remains a contempt of court for hon. Members; and asks the Solicitors Regulatory Authority to review the implementation of the solicitors' code of conduct and how this relates to conflicts of interest in the Family Court.

Signatures by party: Liberal Democrat 10, Labour 4, Conservative 1, Independent 1.