Law Society election priorities a roadmap to justice and prosperity

The Law Society of Scotland has published its priorities ahead of the upcoming Scottish Parliament election, focusing on six key areas to boost prosperity and provide for fairness and justice for all.

The professional body for Scottish solicitors has produced Justice Matters – What Scotland’s Political Parties Must Deliver at the 2026 Parliament Election, urging candidates across the political spectrum to commit to:

• Respecting the rule of law and championing human rights
• Making good laws through clear and workable legislation
• Delivering access to justice to all who need it
• Modernising our justice system for the future
• Broadening Scotland’s legal talent pipeline
• Making justice and the law a catalyst for economic growth

Law Society of Scotland President Patricia Thom said: “We are living in an increasingly challenging and uncertain world, and Scotland is facing rising political, economic and social turbulence. Our legal and justice systems have a vital role to play in responding to these challenges.

“The six priorities that we have identified for the next Scottish Government and all MSPs are focused on ensuring fairness and justice for all and on ensuring the legal sector is best placed to boost prosperity for all people living in Scotland.

“Respect for the rule of law and a commitment to good law making are essential features of any effective government. It is vital that MSPs speak up to defend our democracy and the independence of our courts and judiciary, and that legislative processes are transparent and evidence based.

“Political inaction has driven the ever-worsening crisis in access to justice in Scotland. The next Scottish Parliament must take strong action to reform legal aid and ensure there is a mechanism for sustainable legal aid fees.

“We will be seeking political engagement as we implement generational changes to the regulation of legal services in Scotland, and support to continue broadening access to legal careers and to ensure the legal professions are maximising economic growth.”