Law Society news
Investment remains the key to improving criminal justice in Scotland
An Audit Scotland report shows that inadequate resourcing is holding back the criminal justice system, according to the Law Society of Scotland.
Serena Sutherland brings Orcadian perspective as new Law Society President
Orkney solicitor and smaller law firm owner Serena Sutherland has begun her term as President of the Law Society of Scotland.
New guide launched to help smaller firms retain talent
We've further boosted our support for smaller firms with a new guide offering practical and evidence-based advice on retaining staff.
Michael Clancy awarded IBA Honorary Life Membership
Law Society of Scotland Director of Law Reform, Michael Clancy OBE has been awarded Honorary Lifetime Membership of the International Bar Association.
Honorary Membership nominations open for outstanding contributors
The Law Society of Scotland has opened nominations for Honorary Membership to recognise Scottish solicitors who have made an outstanding contribution to the public good through their legal careers.
New UK Government Bill risks weakening fight against economic crime, warns Law Society
Plans by the UK Government to reform anti-money laundering regulation in Scotland are “misplaced, misguided and counterproductive” and risk weakening the fight against economic crime, the Law Society of Scotland has warned.
Smith & Grant FAQs
Leven law firm, Smith & Grant Solicitors, has ceased to practise. If you are a solicitor or a client affected by the closure of this firm, you may find our answers to some of the most frequently asked questions useful.
Recommended pay boost to benefit trainee solicitors
The Law Society of Scotland has increased its recommended pay for trainee solicitors for 2026/27 in response to inflation and changes to the Real Living Wage.
In-house legal talent shines as rising stars crowned
A local government trainee and an early career solicitor working in finance have been crowned the Law Society of Scotland’s 2026 In-house Rising Stars.
Law Society of Scotland stands for rule of law in US court action
The Law Society of Scotland is stepping in to support four American law firms in court action against executive orders issued by United States President Donald Trump.
Law Society makes significant reduction in conduct complaint timescales
A new Scottish Legal Complaints Commission report highlights a reduction in the time taken for the Law Society of Scotland to complete conduct complaints.
Money Laundering Regulations reform
The UK Government has presented its Money Laundering Regulations reforms before Parliament. We detail the key amendments Scottish legal practitioners should be aware of.
Legal sector welcomes 106 solicitors in double admissions ceremony
Scotland’s legal sector continues to grow as 106 solicitors were formally welcomed to the profession in central Edinburgh yesterday.
HMRC registration requirements for tax advisors
As of 18 May 2026, tax advisors who interact with HMRC on behalf of their clients and provide professional tax advice and services, will be required to register with HMRC.
Law Society calls for joined-up approach as key to legal reform success
The Law Society of Scotland has stressed that a joined-up approach across regulators will be essential to ensuring the success of major reforms to legal services, as part of its response to the Scottish Legal Complaints Commission (SLCC) strategy consultation and its draft budget.
Law Society members progress careers with accreditation
Congratulations are in order for 33 of the Law Society of Scotland's members as they have been recognised for their work in their chosen fields.
New Scottish solicitors celebrated at admissions ceremony
The Law Society formally welcomed 113 solicitors to the profession across two ceremonies held in central Edinburgh on 24 February, marking a strong start to the year for the Scottish legal sector.
15 new solicitor advocates granted extended rights of audience
15 new solicitor advocates who have been granted extended rights of audience to appear in the High Court, the Supreme Court and the Judicial Committee of the Privy Council.
UK Finance defers launch of new Mortgage Lenders’ Handbook platform
The membership body for UK lenders, UK Finance, has agreed to delay implementation of its new Mortgage Lenders’ Handbook to extend the test period.
In-house award returns to spotlight solicitors and trainees
The Law Society of Scotland is looking for the brightest in-house talent as it seeks nominations for its annual competition, the In-house Rising Star Award.
Smaller firm solicitors to benefit from free business support roadshows
We have launched a new series of roadshow events to provide smaller firm solicitors with free business support in areas such as technology and regulatory compliance.
UK Finance to drop proposed charge on conveyancers
We have worked with the Law Society of England and Wales and the Law Society of Northern Ireland to press for a proposed fee for conveyancers to be dropped.
Fraud alert – emails impersonating law firm solicitors
We have been alerted to a spate of scam emails from fraudsters pretending to be legitimate solicitors at law firms.
13% legal aid fee rise a lifeline for access to justice
Access to justice in Scotland has received a major boost, with a 13% increase in all legal aid fees secured after a sustained campaign from the Law Society of Scotland.