From here to 2027

Five key priority areas underpin the Law Society of Scotland’s strategy for 2022-27, unveiled last month ahead of the new practice year.

Opening by setting out the Society’s mission, “to support a thriving profession of high quality and trusted solicitors in Scotland with access to justice for all”, the strategy covers both the Society’s own operations and its fundamental role in leading the Scottish legal sector to serve the public. Central objectives include addressing the climate crisis (on which the Society commits to leading by example), providing effective regulation and advocating for good policy underpinned by the rule of law.

In a document that explains the political, economic etc context within which it has been developed, the strategy outlines the five key priority areas as:

Supporting our members to thrive

Under this heading the Society will focus on wellbeing resources to sustain positive mental health; guidance and support for members; the best CPD training; and strategic collaboration on technology.

Providing modern and effective regulation acting in the public interest

Against the background of the Scottish Government’s promised legislation on a new regulatory framework, this heading will see the Society deliver independently exercised (through the Regulatory Committee), proportionate and risk-based regulation; promote innovation through new alternative business models; maintain robust education, training and admission standards; and protect the public interest to ensure public trust.

Striving for innovation and efficiency

The Society will reflect and represent a diverse society; practise “excellent social and environmental responsibility”; ensure its own proper resourcing through financial and commercial activity; and invest to work innovatively and efficiently.

Being an influential voice that enhances our legal sector and justice

This involves evidence for good public policy decision-making; speaking up for the profession and the rule of law; and promoting policy reform to help revive the legal aid sector and access to justice.

Leading the legal profession

The Society will promote: social mobility and diversity across the profession; climate conscious and socially responsible action through Lawscot Sustainability; a thriving profession in all parts of Scotland; and high standards through specialist training, certification and accreditation.

Introducing the strategy via a webinar, President Murray Etherington said it had been developed through wide consultation with members, volunteer committee members, staff, MSPs and other stakeholders. It was most important that members felt well supported. He commented: “The Society plays a pivotal role in the Scottish legal landscape and for the public generally. We take that responsibility incredibly seriously, both in our daily work and in considering how to work towards an even brighter future.”

In response to a question about how it is possible to plan, given the uncertainty about the future for the Society, Vice President Sheila Webster said the Society was committed to its preferred model of regulation and would be working to try and further that. Even if the Government opted for something different, the Society would seek to achieve as much of its model as possible.

Chief executive Diane McGiffen added that the Society had lived with the uncertainty since the Roberton review, and it was good that there was now some timetable. The team was organised to respond quickly to more detailed proposals as they came, and the Society would be speaking up for the profession all the way through the process.

“At its heart,” she said, “this new strategy supports our members to thrive in a growing and well-regulated sector. It sets out how we will work to enhance society and the profession while being a guardian of access to justice and the independence of our legal system.

“We are committed to modernising regulation to benefit the public and the profession, while retaining the Society as the professional body responsible for standard setting, financial compliance and professional conduct.”