Summary
Led the profession's campaign against government plans to restrict jury trials. Won new investment in criminal legal aid and pupillage while warning that legal aid is at breaking point.
Leadership in period: Kirsty Brimelow KC became Chair for 2026; the Bar Council represents about 18,000 barristers.
Key developments
- Opposed jury-trial restrictions as untested while welcoming criminal legal-aid and pupillage investment.
- Gave oral and written evidence on the Courts and Tribunals Bill.
- Published its 2025/26 annual report and continued AML and Legal Ombudsman responses.
Criterion ratings
Rule of Law and Judicial Independence
Strong
Access to Justice
Strong
Governance and Transparency
Strong
Professional Standards and Education
Moderate
Diversity and Inclusion
Not assessed
Assessment
This was a year of intensive, evidence-based advocacy on a constitutional question. The Bar Council coordinated closely with criminal and circuit bars and other UK and Irish bars.