Law Society news
Law Society criticises drop in legal aid spending
The Society has responded to the publication of the Scottish Legal Aid Board’s annual report which shows a drop in legal aid spending.
Professional Practice Updates - December 2016
In light of recent reported cases, we would like to remind members that we have guidance on the terms of Rule B1.5, Proper Instructions, namely that a member must be satisfied when taking instructions from a client that the client does in fact have capacity to give instructions in relation to that matter.
Trainee blog - Emily Callaghan
Emily is a first-year trainee from Brodies LLP. Her first seat is in the Commercial Services Division. Emily obtained her LLB and Diploma from the University of Dundee.
NQ blog - December 2016: Five tips for a successful transition from trainee to NQ
John Brannigan studied at the University of Glasgow and completed his traineeship at Gallen & Co Solicitors.
The UK should maintain links with Europe's police
The Society has responded to the House of Lords EU Home Affairs Sub-Committee's Inquiry on the future of EU-UK security and police co-operation
New anti-money laundering risk assessment form available to firms
As part of our ongoing work to refresh the anti-money laundering (AML) resources we make available to the profession, we have recently added an example ‘AML Risk Assessment Form’, which can be downloaded and used by member firms.
Graham Matthews nominated to be next Law Society President
Nominations for vice president-elect announced
Law Society launches Christmas charity campaign
The Law Society of Scotland has launched a Christmas campaign for its new charity, the Lawscot Foundation, today, Thursday 24 November.
Law Society members survey
Each year the Law Society works with Ipsos MORI to carry out research with our members. The 2016 research commences on Monday 28 November 2016.
How to manage stress at exam time
Katy Forrest, a third year LLB student at the University of Stirling, discusses various techniques law students can use to deal with stress.
SLCC annual report shows rise in complaints
The Law Society comments on the figures from the Scottish Legal Complaints Commission annual report for 2015-16
What it’s like to do an in-house traineeship
Gavin Smith, a first year trainee at Standard Life, explains some of the different features of an in-house traineeship.
Trainee blog - Gavin Smith
Gavin Smith, a first year trainee at Standard Life, explains some of the different features of an in-house traineeship.
Development opportunity for experienced solicitors
Experienced members of the legal profession are being invited to sign up as mentors to offer guidance and support to trainee solicitors.
Brussels Agenda - November 2016
The latest news from the Law Societies' Brussels Office.
St Andrew’s Day dinner and ceilidh
We held our flagship London St Andrew's event on Friday 11 November and were delighted so many of our members could attend.
Premium credit instalment facility tender
The Society has issued a tender seeking to identify a premium credit provider who will be able to provide an efficient and cost effective service to firms wishing to use such a facility to fund their professional indemnity insurance premium costs.
Scottish Courts and Tribunals wifi update
We’re currently working with the Scottish Courts and Tribunals Service (SCTS) to evaluate free wifi access for our members in courts across Scotland.
Scottish pupils to debate banning referendums in national competition
Pupils from schools across Scotland are preparing to debate the pros and cons of holding referendums when they take to the floor for the opening rounds of the Law Society of Scotland’s annual debating tournament.
Fake law firm calling itself 'Law TPM & Associates’
We’re aware of scam involving a fake law firm calling itself ‘Law TPM & Associates’, who have issued correspondence relating to legal services they claim to offer.
What employers of legal professionals can do to help staff with dyslexia
Dyslexia Awareness Week takes place from 7-12 November and this year’s theme ‘Dyslexia: did you know…?’ opens up discussions about how much organisations really understand about dyslexia, how it affects their staff and the support that’s available.
Article 50 High Court judgement demonstrates judicial independence
Law Society President Eilidh Wiseman and Dean of the Faculty of Advocates Gordon Jackson QC jointly commented on the High Court judgement on the role of the UK Parliament in invoking Article 50