Law Costs Draftsmen’s Bill

It is expected that the application of the Association of Law Costs Draftsmen (ALCD) for authorised body status will receive Parliamentary approval from both Houses before the end of the year and come into effect on 1 January 2007. Under the provisions, the ALCD will be responsible for how rights of audience are implemented for its members. Rights of audience will be conferred only on Fellows who apply for formal rights and undergo a compulsory training course. The course will cover such matters as money laundering, client and office accounts, conflict of interest, confidentiality, business management and responsibilities, discrimination avoidance, publicity, relations with third parties and advocacy etiquette.