Profile

What is your own practice area?

Employment.

What motivates you to get up on a Monday morning?

Monday is my non-working day, so it’s usually a game of golf! On a Tuesday morning the office beckons and a catchup with colleagues soon gets me back into work mode.

What’s your top tip for new lawyers?

Try not to be too specialist too soon – take the opportunity to experience lots of different areas if you can, and client secondments if possible. It’s a long road – no need to go at 100mph.

How long have you been a member of Council and how did you become involved?

Three years. I have an interest in the future of the legal profession and the availability of access to legal advice for all those who need it. Even though my career has taken me into commercial practice, the reasons why I studied law in the first place continue to inspire me.

In what specific capacities have you served (office bearer, committee or other)?

I have enjoyed being a member of Council and have served on the accreditation panel for the law degree. Currently I sit on the editorial board of the Journal and the Scottish planning committee for the ABA conference in Scotland in October 2013.

What have been the highlights for you personally?

Meeting the other Council members, who are drawn from all parts of the profession and geographical areas, hearing the issues and noting the similarities in the challenges facing us all, regardless of area and size of practice.

How do you keep in touch with members in your constituency?

As I am an elected representative for Edinburgh I share the role with six Council members. I seek views within my own firm, which is a large commercial practice, and work with the Society to communicate to members through emails, the Journal and update events.

What do you see as the main issues that your local members want Council to address at present?

Proposals regarding court closures, the Gill reforms, criminal legal aid, and working with the Government.

What do you see as the other main issues that Council has to address at present?

Engaging with members is and remains a top priority.

If you could change only one thing for your members, what would it be?

Further support members to help provide opportunities for those entering the profession.

What keeps you busy outside of work?

Golf and my friends.