Two contest Society Vice Presidency for 2017-18

A two-way contest will take place for the position of Vice President of the Law Society of Scotland for 2017-18.

Glasgow solicitor Alison Atack and Falkirk-based John Mulholland were both nominated at today's Council meeting. A ballot of Council members will decide the winner, with the result being announced at the next meeting on 16 December. 

Ms Atack, a partner at Lindsays joined Council in 1998 and is a member of the Society’s board, as well as convener of the Client Protection Fund Subcommittee. Mr Mulholland, a criminal law consultant at Marshall Wilson Law Group, joined Council in May 2012, and is the current treasurer of the Society and convener of its Finance Committee.

The successful candidate will serve as Vice President when Graham Matthews, the current holder of the office, steps up as President in terms of the Society's constitution next May.

Mr Matthews, a partner at north east law firm Peterkins, has served as the Council member representing Aberdeenshire solicitors for over 10 years and has been a member of a number of committees including the Society’s Professional Practice and Regulatory Committees.

Current President Eilidh Wiseman commented: “I’m very pleased to congratulate Graham on his nomination today to take up the role of President and Alison and John on their nominations.

“Graham has been terrific to work with as Vice President and I know he will bring his experience, energy and enthusiasm to the presidency next year." 

She added that with experience on the Society's Professional Practice and Regulatory Committees, Mr Matthews had "a deep understanding of the high professional standards which solicitors are expected to attain to ensure they provide the advice and service their clients need", and that “With longstanding experience of the high street sector, Graham also understands the issues facing solicitors across Scotland."