cab rank rule

British  

noun

1. the rule that obliges barristers to take on any client in strict rotation

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Etymology

Origin of cab rank rule

C20: from the idea of a queue of taxis, each taking the first customer who comes along

Example Sentences

Richards said the "cab rank rule" - the principle that a barrister must take on any case that is within their area of expertise, regardless of the client - "should always be respected, but it cannot remove conflicts of interest, or eliminate the responsibility of politicians to avoid such conflicts".

From BBC

In a statement, Mr Vineall said: "The cab rank rule prevents barristers from refusing work because they disagree with the actions or views of those seeking their services."

From BBC

They now face the prospect of disciplinary action for breaching professional regulations such as the so-called 'cab rank rule', which requires lawyers to take on any case within their competence.

From BBC

The QC also gave an insight into the legal process and explained advocates are allocated clients and instructed by solicitors using the "cab rank rule".

From BBC