ABSTRACT
The contribution of lawyers to society is enormous and very important. To help the public image, Canadian lawyers considered establishing a 'truth and reconciliation' panel in 2005 to discover why they do not enjoy greater respect. The new century began with specialist criminal law solicitor-advocates operating from dedicated offices in some cities, and barristers who are effectively working as in-house lawyers in companies, carrying out work that seems very like that traditionally done by solicitors. The growth of solicitor's rights of audience in court, and a corresponding anxiety at the Bar are noted when these rights were granted. Another big change for the legal profession has been the introduction of Alternative Business Structures (ABS), which allow anyone who is 'fit and proper' to provide legal services, regardless of whether or not they have a legal qualification. This includes insurance companies and supermarkets, and has been given the nickname 'Tesco law'.
