James Ashby’s lawyer, Michael Harmer of Harmers Workplace Lawyers, who was slammed by Justice Steven Rares for including “scandalous and irrelevant” allegations in a sexual harassment case against former parliamentary speaker Peter Slipper, has claimed his professional reputation has been sullied.

A NSW proposal to ban smartphones and tablets in NSW courtrooms is being criticised as a backward approach. Lawyers are concerned it will stifle communication between colleagues and clients, while journalists argue it could endanger the principle of open justice.

Meanwhile, the Law Council of Australia’s new president, Joe Catanzariti, spotlights access to justice as a priority area in this election year.

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Ashby lawyer says reputation damaged; Technology ban may not be smart move; Women’s retention top priority for new LCA head