Human rights lawyer appointed to Law Society Council

The co-founder of a human rights and equality charity is the first to be appointed to a brand new seat on the Law Society of Scotland Council to represent third sector solicitors.

Kirsty Thomson, partner and director of JustRight Scotland, will take up the new role when she joins the Society’s Council next month. Her appointment was confirmed today, Friday 16 October. 

JustRight Scotland was established by an experienced group of human rights lawyers, to defend and extend people’s rights in Scotland.  They develop collaborative social justice projects, deliver legal services, legal education, and research and policy work within the justice and human rights sector in Scotland and further afield.

Amanda Millar, President of the Law Society of Scotland, said: “It’s really exciting to have Kirsty come in to this new seat on our Council and represent the third sector. With my own background and previous positions as committee member, board member and chair of charitable organisations, I know only too well how important it is that we have the views of our members working in this sector represented on our Council.

“Kirsty has tremendous experience, with 13 years practising as a human rights lawyer In Scotland, co-founding JustRight Scotland in 2017, where she leads on legal work in women’s rights, children’s rights, human trafficking and asylum/immigration law. I am truly excited to have her on board.”

Kirsty Thomson said: “I am delighted to have been appointed to this new role on Council, and am really excited about the potential for making a difference.  It’s a privilege to be in a position to represent the views of my third sector colleagues, and being able to contribute to the Law Society’s  governance and decision making, particularly in what will be a challenging time ahead for the legal sector and its various client bases. I am passionate about building a stronger pro bono culture in Scotland and creating opportunities for lawyers to share their skills with people and organisations on issues that matter, as well as creating legal education and early career opportunities for aspiring and new solicitors to work in the third sector. I can’t wait to get stuck in!”

This morning’s Council meeting also welcomed Charlotte Edgar, elected last month to represent New Lawyers, and James Keegan QC, who was elected to represent Solicitor Advocates, to their first Council meeting. Siobhan Kahmann was also welcomed back, having been returned to represent international members.

Kirsty was appointed following a nominations process, and her appointment was recommended to Council by the Nominations Committee. Kirsty will take up her new post from 1 November and will attend her first Council meeting on 27 November.