Fringe benefits boost conference appeal

As well as the high-profile keynote speakers and topical panel sessions you would expect from the Law Society of Scotland’s annual conference, Leading Legal Excellence on Friday 26 October will see the return of the conference fringe. This year topics including technology, wellbeing and self-development are tackled in a series of interactive sessions.

These include an update on Lawscot Wellbeing, with Kenny Robertson sharing the benefits that RBS has seen from its wellbeing initiatives, and even the chance to try chair yoga. Meanwhile, Helena Raulus from the Brussels Office chairs a panel exploring the EU’s approach to negotiations and flagging the potential pitfalls that the UK faces ahead of Brexit.

Simon Allison and the Blackadders Employment Law team lead a session on “Managing your millennials” – how to harness the potential of the new breed of worker, while Aisling McMullan and Hayley Gibson from investment consultants Hymans Robertson share top tips on delivering legal training to non-legal colleagues, which can be a great opportunity for in-house lawyers to raise their profile within their organisation.

There’s a chance to visit the “Future office” for a demonstration of exciting developments in digital forensics and cyber security with The Cyber Academy, and blockchain and smart contracts with Monax. For those thinking about future career options, the Judicial Appointments Board for Scotland and experienced solicitor advocates will host drop-in sessions to answer practical questions on applying for judicial office, and qualifying or working as a solicitor advocate respectively.

Conference delegates also have the opportunity to access one-to-one advice on personal and professional challenges. Those seeking development for themselves or their team can consult with executive coaches Thomas Chalmers and Russell Borland of Leading Figures, while Graeme McKinstry, who built a leading high street firm, will be in surgery to advise on aspects of practice from setting up to succession planning. With a limited number of consultations available, don’t delay to secure your place.

Leading Legal Excellence takes place on Friday 26 October at the Edinburgh International Conference Centre. Select from the full programme – include the fringe sessions and surgeries – when you book your conference ticket at lawscot.org.uk/annualconference