BSB says ten Horizon-related investigations may reach the decision stage this year
The Bar Standards Board has confirmed that it is progressing multiple investigations linked to the Post Office Horizon scandal, with ten open cases expected to move to its Independent Decision-Making Body during 2026.
In a statement issued on 27 April 2026, the regulator said it recognised the impact the Horizon scandal had on sub-postmasters, their families and communities, as well as the wider effect on public confidence in the Bar. The BSB stated that it would take enforcement action where barristers were found to have failed in their professional duties during cases connected to the scandal.
According to the regulator, there are currently ten active investigations relating to barristers involved in Horizon-related proceedings. These cases are expected to progress to the Independent Decision-Making Body (IDB), which is responsible for determining whether disciplinary action should be taken. The announcement forms part of wider scrutiny of legal professionals involved in prosecutions connected to the faulty Horizon IT system used by the Post Office.
The BSB also confirmed that it is continuing to review the 111 criminal conviction cases overturned by the Court of Appeal. The regulator said it is finalising its assessment to ensure that all proportionate lines of investigation have been identified and considered.
The Horizon scandal resulted in hundreds of sub-postmasters being wrongly prosecuted based on inaccurate accounting data generated by the Horizon computer system. The case has led to ongoing investigations, public inquiries and regulatory scrutiny across the legal sector.
The BSB said it has been working closely with the Solicitors Regulation Authority as part of the broader regulatory response. It added that the Legal Services Board is being regularly updated on the progress of the investigations. The regulator did not identify the barristers under investigation or provide details about the alleged conduct being examined.
The Independent Decision-Making Body will assess whether there is sufficient evidence to support disciplinary proceedings once investigations are completed. Potential outcomes can include referrals to disciplinary tribunals where breaches of professional obligations are alleged.
The statement reflects continuing regulatory focus on the professional conduct of lawyers involved in the Horizon prosecutions, which remain among the most significant miscarriages of justice in recent UK legal history. The BSB reiterated that maintaining public confidence in the profession remains a central consideration as investigations continue.