Mark your calendars

The Annual Conference is fast approaching with an engaging agenda. Hear directly from the CPD team about why you should be attending.

The Annual Conference 2024 is set to take place from Monday 28th October to Thursday 31st October 2024, offering a blend of online sessions over the first three days and a flexible final day that can be attended either online or in person at the Edinburgh International Conference Centre (EICC). This hybrid format ensures that legal professionals from across Scotland and beyond can engage fully, regardless of their location or schedule.

Rachel Steer, CPD Senior Manager, highlights what a remarkable year it already is for the Society as it celebrated its 75^th anniversary, adding:

“This year’s conference is against the backdrop of a significant milestone in the Law Society of Scotland’s history as we celebrate our 75^th anniversary. Rather than reflecting on the past, this year’s conference focus is firmly on the future and how we can thrive over the next 75 years. With growing signs of change within the profession, we are committed to supporting our members in staying ahead of these developments and embracing the opportunities they present.”

The conference programme focuses on key issues shaping the legal profession, including inclusivity, innovation, and the future of Scotland's legal system. Some of the core topics for discussion will be:

• A Thriving and Inclusive Profession (Monday 28th October)
• A Modern and Robust Legal System (Tuesday 29th October)
• An Innovative and Sustainable Future (Wednesday 30th October)

The in-person or virtual full-day session on Thursday 31st October will be an engaging experience with keynote speakers and panel discussions exploring the latest developments in the legal sector. This final day alone offers six hours of CPD, while the preceding three days each offer 2.5 hours of CPD for attending members.

The conference has an impressive line-up of keynote speakers, including Dr Gabor Maté, known for his pioneering work on mental health and trauma; Pierre-Dominique Schupp, President of the Council of Bars and Law Societies of Europe; and Rachel Corsie, captain of the Scotland Women’s Football Team, who will share her experiences of leadership both on and off the field.

Ian Forsyth, CPD Legal Researcher, commented on the keynote speakers:

“Bridging the worlds of sport, mental health and justice, this year’s keynote speakers have the depth of knowledge and experience we hope will cater to everyone’s interests.

“A world-renowned physician with expertise in trauma, a trail-blazing female sports star and the President of the Council of Bars and Law Societies of Europe illustrates perfectly the depth of knowledge and experience on offer at this year’s flagship gathering. Between the three of our keynote addresses, we believe there is something for everyone at this year’s Annual Conference.”

With such a diverse and thought-provoking programme, the Annual Conference is poised to provide invaluable insights for solicitors at all stages of their careers. Registration is free for members of the Law Society of Scotland, making this a must-attend event for anyone looking to enhance their professional knowledge and skills.

Rachel Steer concluded by saying: "The final day of the conference is a unique opportunity for our in-person delegates to meet face-to-face, network with peers, and engage with leading legal service providers. Held at the Edinburgh International Conference Centre, this day will feature keynote speakers and thought leaders, and present opportunities for interactive panel sessions and roundtable discussions from top professionals."

We are excited to be joining the Society for the Annual Conference, initially online, but then in person on the final day. Will we see you there? We hope so!

You can find out more about the conference, how to register, the programme and a list of speakers by clicking here.