Articles

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.

The Society, in association with Wordsmith, has launched their Guide to Generative AI. Covering both the benefits and risks, the Guide also highlights accessibility of such tools for smaller firms.

Join the CIArb Scottish Branch for an immersive course on international arbitration, where you’ll explore the core principles of cross-border dispute resolution and how it connects to other global legal processes.

We take a moment to remember those in the profession no longer with us.

We speak to Warren Wander, the creator of legal IT system LawWare, about how Scotland has been the bedrock to his company’s 25 years of success.

Love is Blind highlighted the confusion that many have around prenups. This topic sparked intense discussions among some couples. Despite it being a practical safeguard, ensuring financial protection, many can feel they undermine the trust and commitment of a relationship.

Susan Murray shares an update on the happenings as President since she took over in May.

Jigsaw identification poses a serious risk by combining harmless details that can unintentionally reveal protected identities, threatening privacy and confidentiality.