It is a bedrock democratic principle that the legal profession must be independent of the state. But what about the manner in which the legal profession and legal services are regulated? What exactly does it mean to be independent from the state and where does accountability lie? In places where “self-regulation” has been unchallenged for years, governments have taken a closer look and asked whether the governance models for the legal services sector ought to change. Policy drivers have included the need to address fair competition, effective and independent complaints handling and increased access to justice– all with a view to fostering public confidence in the system of regulation of the legal services sector. And so, the need for good governance and independence need to be balanced. Can they be, and if so, how? 
 
In this interactive session, we will hear from bar leaders in jurisdictions whose systems of governance have been or are in the process of being reviewed by the state and learn how they are dealing with change or the prospect of change. Bar leaders everywhere should take note as real or perceived threats to independence may also present opportunities to improve how bars and law societies do their work.