Industry updates
October 2024 Public Policy highlights
Take a look at the Public Policy highlights from the Law Society policy committees for October 2024.
In conversation with the Advocate General for Scotland
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".
More help delivered and payments increase - but justice-wide collaboration needed to reform system
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.
Scullion LAW expands as a result of surge in client demand
Scullion LAW is excited to announce the expansion of its Family Law department, driven by strong client demand for their specialist family law services.
Sustainability – opportunities and obstacles
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.
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.
Scotland’s Legal Pioneers
At the Society’s Annual Conference, six inspiring members of the legal sector were announced as the inaugural winners of the Legal Pioneer Award.
60 seconds with the Society's Rural Affairs Committee Convener
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.
Scottish Law Commission seeks views
A discussion paper has been published reviewing the civil remedies available for domestic abuse.
President round-up
Susan Murray shares an update on the happenings as President since she took over in May.
The end of a BRP era
As the UK phases out BRPs in favour of eVisas, how will this shift affect your clients? With existing delays and confusion, could the situation worsen?
Advancing climate justice efforts
As the climate crisis intensifies, the concept of climate justice has gained prominence, linking environmental protection with law, human rights and social equity.
Not just a big day for employment lawyers
Thursday, 10th October 2024 – hailed by many employment lawyers as their “Christmas morning” – marked the publication of the Employment Rights Bill. The UK Government has called it the most significant overhaul of employment law in a generation. While the Bill does propose sweeping changes, it falls short of some of the more ambitious reforms outlined in Labour’s manifesto.
OPG fees
As a quick reminder, the fees payable to the Public Guardian are set to increase on 1 November.
Decade-old provisions still light the sky
SPICe has published an updated briefing outlining the legislative framework in relation to the supply, sale, use, storage and possession of fireworks.
September 2024 Public Policy highlights
Take a look at the Public Policy highlights from the various Society committees for September 2024.
A night to remember
The profession was celebrated at the Scottish Legal Awards last week, showcasing excellence and innovation across the sector.
A fresh chapter commences
The 2024-25 Scottish legal year opened with Lord Carloway’s final address. The event, livestreamed for the first time, saw 18 new King’s Counsel welcomed.
Sporting impact
Will football follow rugby from the pitch to the court when it comes to brain injuries? Football’s Bill Gates, the 1970s Middlesborough defensive stalwart, may not be as well-known as his Microsoft co-founder’s namesake, but in common with him, his legacy could have a profound and lasting impact.
The latest UNCRC update
Statutory guidance for Part 3 has been published, addressing those with responsibilities in listed public authorities and providing information on creating child-friendly reports.
Regulation or resilience?
The next In-house Sustainability Toolkit event, taking place this month, will explore supply chains scrutiny.
60 seconds with Head of Policy
Sophie McIvor sat down with Jennifer Paton a year after taking on the role at the Society. Read about what the next year might look like and her team aspirations.
Assisted dying, long-term prisoner release and public finances
The Society’s committee’s policy updates this month cover, like always, a broad mix of topics.
Including the committee view that there are a number of deficiencies in the Assisted Dying Bill linked to its competence in relation to the European Convention on Human Rights and mental health and capacity legislation.