CILEX Mazur appeal – hearing date confirmed

19 December 2025

We welcome confirmation that the Court of Appeal has scheduled a hearing of CILEX’s appeal against the Mazur judgment for 24 February 2026. Given the judgment’s significance for our members, the wider legal profession, and its public interest implications for access to justice, there is a clear and urgent need for detailed judicial examination of the issues it raises. We look forward to presenting our case and moving closer to the clarity our members and the sector urgently need.

Although not party to the original proceedings, we were granted permission to appeal under the Court of Appeal’s discretion to hear appeals brought by those adversely affected by a decision.

Commenting on the decision, CILEX chief executive Jennifer Coupland said:

“It is great news that the Court of Appeal has acted quickly and recognised the need for a detailed examination of the issues raised by the Mazur ruling. We have already seen the significant impact it is having, not only on our members but on law firms more widely. We are also concerned about the longer-term impact on access to justice, diversity in the legal profession and the efficient running of the legal system.”

“CILEX will now have the opportunity to present its argument that Mazur was wrongly decided. In addition, the uncertainties that have resulted from this judgment will be fully ventilated and determined through the appeal process.”

CILEX is being represented pro bono by leading lawyers in the field: Nick Bacon KC, head of 4 New Square – renowned for his costs work and professional disciplinary and regulatory practice – supported in his chambers by Helen Evans KC, Teen Jui Chow and Faye Metcalfe, and by Iain Miller, partner, and Stephen Nelson, senior associate, of City law firm Kingsley Napley. Mr Miller is general editor of the authoritative textbook Cordery on Legal Services, while Mr Nelson was until earlier this year head of legal at the Solicitors Regulation Authority.

ENDS