Rule of law and independence of the profession

The Annual Conference saw an average of 450 delegates join online over the four days, and 230 in person on the final day. Experience the highlights through inspiring conversations, thought-provoking keynotes, and panel discussions, as shared by some of the delegates.

The significance of the rule of law and maintaining an independent legal profession were central themes discussed during the Society’s 2024 Annual Conference.

The concluding day of this pivotal event for solicitors took place on Thursday, 31 October, as a hybrid event in Edinburgh.

Over the course of the four-day conference, a variety of topics were explored, with many sessions dedicated to ensuring the profession remains resilient and continues its vital work for individuals, businesses, and communities.

Diane McGiffen, Chief Executive of the Law Society, addressed attendees, stating: “We want every Scottish solicitor to be as well-equipped as possible to deal with the challenges of today and those coming along, both professionally and by supporting physical and mental wellbeing.”

The opening keynote speaker on the final day was Pierre-Dominique Schupp, President of the Council of Bars and Law Societies of Europe (CCBE), who emphasised the importance of an independent legal profession.

He remarked: “Independence is not merely a privilege of the legal profession; it is a responsibility that we as lawyers must safeguard for it is the foundation on which the rule of law rests.

“At the end of the day the independence of the profession is not an abstract principle; it is something that each of us as legal professionals must actively defend. we members of the profession must act to protect.”

Emma Russell, trainee at DAC Beachcroft spoke to the Journal about attending her first Annual Conference.

The conference also featured Baroness Smith of Cluny KC, recently appointed Advocate General for Scotland, who discussed her role as one of the UK Government’s three legal officers and the government’s approach to legal matters.

She affirmed: “This government will honour its international obligations and honour the treaties that we are signatory to.”

Baroness Smith highlighted the importance of the relationship between Westminster and Holyrood, noting: “There is a considered and concerted and real and genuine effort to press the reset button. That’s happening through members of my department engaging with other government departments to make it clear to them that they need to consider this right at the start.”

The main conference sponsor, Wordsmith AI, also delivered a keynote address and firmly reminded delegates that lawyers are not at risk of losing their jobs, or being completely replaced by computers. He added: “From the 1960s to now, the per capita number of lawyers has doubled” and that time frame has seen considerable technological advancements, which has also aided accessibility to legal services.

Kate Gillies, senior associate and legal content writer at Harper Macleod LLP, told the Journal: “The Law Society conference once again delivered a brilliant reminder of the bigger picture with a range of inspiring and insightful speakers, and well-deserved recognition for the Legal Pioneers. These events remind me that it is a privilege to be part of the legal community in Scotland.”

Fiona Chute, senior associate at Brodies, and panellist on the day, said of her session:

Scott Stephenson, solicitor at Complete Clarity Solicitors spoke to the Journal as a delegate and his thoughts on the technology panel.

In her concluding address, Law Society President Susan Murray reflected on the conference’s main themes: fostering a thriving and inclusive profession, supporting a modern and resilient legal system, and building an innovative and sustainable future for the legal sector.

She remarked: “That we share important values and, together, strive to remain a successful, dynamic sector, is down to us all. As we always have done, we will continue to innovate, refine and improve what we do and I hope keep supporting each other, around those areas of our profession which need that support the most.

“We all have an interest in our clients’ legal needs being met by us as a profession, whatever the speciality and wherever the need arises.”

The event also welcomed keynote addresses from prominent figures, including Falklands veteran, author, and broadcaster Simon Weston CBE, Rachel Corsie, Captain of Scotland Women’s National Team and Aston Villa Women.

Sheila Webster, past president told the Journal:

Additionally, the conference celebrated the winners of the Law Society’s inaugural Legal Pioneer Award with a special presentation. Read more here.

Written by Rebecca Morgan, editor.