Friends in Law 2016

Nine chambers recognised for charity contributions

Nine chambers have received the Friends in Law special award in recognition of their generous support to both the Bar Pro Bono Unit (BPBU) and Free Representation Unit (FRU).

Friends in Law is a joint initiative between the FRU and the BPBU that recognises the financial contributions made by chambers to both organisations, neither of whom receive government funding and therefore rely solely on donations of the legal profession in order to continue their important work.

At a special ceremony on 13 July 2016 at Inner Temple, chairman of the Bar, Chantal-Aimée Doerries QC, presented the nine chambers with their awards.

Of their vital role in supporting the two charities, the Chairman said: "The FRU and BPBU have critical roles to play in providing representation and help to people at a time when access to justice is so limited. The financial support given to both organisations enables this work to continue.  We recognise in addition to financial support the many hours of pro bono work undertaken by barristers within the sets. This successful collaboration allows people to access justice who otherwise would find it difficult to do so.”

2016 is the seventh year that the scheme has been in operation. Joining the Chairman of the Bar at the presentation were Jess Campbell, chief executive of the Bar Pro Bono Unit and Lorna Reid, chief executive of FRU.

The 2016 Friends in Law are:

• Devereux Chambers
• 12 King’s Bench Walk
• Keating Chambers
• 3 Verulam Buildings
• 5RB

In recognition of their significant financial contributions to both charities the following chambers were conferred with special Platinum Friends in Law Awards:

• One Crown Office Row
• 11KBW
• One Essex Court
• 3-4 South Square

In order to qualify for Friends in Law, chambers will have made a minimum donation of £1,000 to both FRU and the Bar Pro Bono Unit.

If you want any more information about the Friends in Law Awards please contact us on admin@thefru.org.uk