Articles

One of Aberdeen’s oldest professional organisations celebrated its 250th year of incorporation at Aberdeen Town House, where they were presented with a full achievement of armorial bearings.

We aren’t talking mediation, maybe collaboration, but could this approach be part of the future of family law in Scotland?

In her interview with Michael Clancy, Baroness Smith of Cluny KC highlighted that representation is important, and it goes beyond gender.

In a special event, Christine McLintock and Ross MacKay were recognised for their outstanding contributions to both the legal profession and the public.

The latest SSDT decision covers a complaint made by the Council of the Law Society of Scotland against Andrew John Robertson, solicitor, Gourock.

Take a look at the Public Policy highlights from the Law Society policy committees for October 2024.

Michael Clancy, Director of Law Reform at the Society, spoke to Baroness Smith of Cluny KC about her recent appointment, representation in the profession, advancing the rule of law and "directly reporting into the Prime Minister".

Rough Justice Report reveals extent of crisis in Scotland’s courts and prosecution services, with many overworked.

Carbon budget approach to setting climate targets agreed. Legislation that will see Scotland move to using five-year carbon budgets to set climate targets has been passed.

Pierre-Dominique Schupp, President of the Council of Bars and Law Societies of Europe dialled in from Paris to share his thoughts on the independence of the profession, advancing the rule of law, the use of AI, and international collaboration.

Would anyone holding or knowing of a will by William Wallace Roy of Ayrshire KA24 5BN please contact JJMcCosh Solicitors.

Today, Wednesday 6 November, the Scottish Legal Aid Board (SLAB) have published their annual report for 2023-24, illustrating that more help is being provided to those with civil and criminal problems.

Ross McNairn, the CEO and Founder of Wordsmith AI, the main sponsor of the Society’s Annual Conference showcased how AI can save professionals time by streamlining and expediting tasks.

Scullion LAW is excited to announce the expansion of its Family Law department, driven by strong client demand for their specialist family law services. 

In a thought-provoking presentation on Day 1 of the 2024 Annual Conference, Lindsay Jack, Head of Diversity, Careers, and Outreach at the Society, and Ayanda Ngobeni, a diploma student at the University of Edinburgh and an incoming trainee at CMS, discussed crucial topics related to social mobility within the legal profession.

'Using AI in the Justice System' was a well-received session on Day 2 of the Society’s 2024 Annual Conference. Paul Mosson, Executive Director of Member Services & Engagement at the Society introduced Ellen Lefley, senior lawyer at JUSTICE, who provided an insightful overview of the complexities and implications of integrating AI into legal and judicial processes. The session outlined both opportunities and risks presented by AI, particularly in enhancing access to justice and the impartiality of decision-making.

Day 3 of the Society's 2024 Annual Conference had a focus on sustainability, with the theme of the day being titled, 'An Innovative and Sustainable Future'. One of the panel discussions titled "Sustainability Opportunities and Obstacles," saw various speakers from the legal profession, including Paul Gostelow, Alastair Morrison, Mark Cruikshank, and Kirsty Mitchell, share insights on the challenges and potential avenues for promoting sustainability within the legal industry.

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.

At the Society’s Annual Conference, six inspiring members of the legal sector were announced as the inaugural winners of the Legal Pioneer Award.

We speak to Alison Reid, founder and chief executive of children’s charity Clan Childlaw, about how young people in Scotland can be supported to assert their rights.

Sophie McIvor spoke to Jamie Whittle about his career, being the Society's Rural Affairs Committee convener, and the recent response to crofting law reform.

An amazing total of 158 walkers (and 8 dogs!), walked over 28 kilometres and raised more than £4,500 for access to justice in Scotland and local legal advice charities. Read all about the walks and how you can still donate in Graeme's update. 

The Family Law team at Scullion LAW recently celebrated their ongoing partnership with Home-Start Glasgow North and North Lanarkshire (HSGNNL), highlighting their continuous support and donations aimed at aiding families in need.

A discussion paper has been published reviewing the civil remedies available for domestic abuse.