It is important that Panel Counsel safeguard information entrusted to them.

Common Security arrangements across civil litigating departments, the CPS and Whitehall Prosecutors have been negotiated with the Bar Council. See below for a copy of the Guidelines and a joint letter from the Attorney General and the Chairman of the Bar Council.

Guidelines on Information Security and Government Work (170kb)

Letter signed by the Attorney General and Chairman of the Bar Council (39kb)

See below for an explanation of security markings

Handling of Protectively Marked Material Guide for Counsel July 2011 (51kb)

We want papers going between TSol and Chambers to go by hand, government car or DX. Please ensure that papers are clearly addressed. Do not put papers relating to different cases in the same envelope or box.

The Criminal Justice Secure Mail System is a relatively secure e-mail system that we are encouraging all London and Regional Panels to sign up to. It is free. Although originally set up for criminal work, it is now available for the Attorney General's Civil Panels.

Those using CJSM may from time to time receive communications referring to use only for criminal matters. Please ignore these. CJSM can be used for civil matters.

CJSM secure e-mail note to counsel (39kb)

Counsel - How to set up on CJSM (19kb)

Encryption is very important. The below guidance on encryption and deletion of material has recently been amended to include some new products.

Encryption and Erasure Guidance for Panel Counsel June 2012 (31kb)

It is vital counsel protect information entrusted to them as there can be serious consequences.