Karen is an internationally renowned solicitor, who qualified in 1987 and for many years was the MD of one of the largest criminal defence firms in the UK. She now specialises in and has a formidable reputation in criminal defence and extradition. She is admired for her ‘fearless’ approach to complex cases. Her peers characterise her as a ‘formidable opponent’ and a ‘vociferous litigator’.

In September 2023, Karen presented a powerful presentation at The Law Friend Society’s Annual Criminal Law Conference, bringing attention to an article produced by Duncan Finylson (Manager of Lawyers Defence Group) who wrote a critique about the Solicitor’s Regulation Authority’s move to no longer pay defence costs of solicitors facing disciplinary proceedings in 2010. For many solicitors, these changes are detrimental and could cost them their careers. It is pointed out that currently solicitors so not have an effective union to assist those facing disciplinary action. In this presentation, she provides an update on action taken towards setting up a solicitor’s defence union, calling out for interest in its development.

Key Words/Topics

Solicitors Union

Solicitor’s Regulation Authority

Disciplinary Proceedings

Disciplinary tribunals

Internal fining powers