Concerns have been raised about the lack of accountability for male barristers accused of bullying and harassment against women.
- Female barrister groups argue that the Bar Standards Board (BSB) is failing to address harassment and gender biases.
- Mandatory bias training is urged to combat trenchant sexist views and improve equality within the legal profession.
- Concerns over impartiality in disciplinary processes, with calls for independent panels similar to those for MPs.
- Social media anonymity among barristers is criticised for enabling unchecked harassment and breaches of conduct.
Recent discussions have surfaced regarding the inadequate measures in place to hold male barristers accountable for bullying and harassment against female colleagues. According to women barristers’ groups, the Bar Standards Board (BSB) is not effectively addressing these issues, thus perpetuating a culture where harassment is minimised and victims feel powerless to challenge such behaviour.
These groups, including Behind the Gown, Right to Equality, and Her Bar, highlight the need for mandatory conscious and unconscious bias training to combat the persistent sexist views held by some barristers. Such training is considered essential to fostering an equitable environment within the profession. They also advocate for a change in the BSB’s leadership, suggesting that the current leaders have lost sight of their public duties in protecting complainants.
The Bar Council’s independent review, led by Harriet Harman KC, is currently gathering evidence on bullying and harassment within the legal sector. The groups express concern over barristers participating in disciplinary tribunals against their colleagues, as this could compromise impartiality. They propose adopting independent panels, similar to those used in handling complaints against MPs, to ensure fair and unbiased decision-making.
Another troubling aspect is the anonymity afforded to barristers on social media, which, according to the groups, enables harassment and breaches of conduct without accountability. They insist on identifying individuals behind anonymous accounts to prevent misuse of such platforms. The BSB’s delay in updating its handbook to include bullying as serious misconduct further exacerbates the situation, as it diminishes the gravity of addressing these challenges.
The complaint mechanisms currently in place are criticised for their inefficiency, with the BSB’s system being used to further harass complainants rather than protect them. An appointed complaints officer in courts and a more effective anonymous reporting tool, such as Talk to Spot, are suggested as necessary improvements to mitigate harassment and bullying. Additionally, the groups call for a tightening of the complaints process to thwart misuse by those holding personal grievances against barristers.
The ongoing discourse underscores an urgent need for reform in how allegations of harassment and bullying within the legal profession are handled, ensuring accountability and protection for victims.
