Practice
October 2024 Public Policy highlights
Take a look at the Public Policy highlights from the Law Society policy committees for October 2024.
In conversation with the Advocate General for Scotland
Michael Clancy, Director of Law Reform at the Society, spoke to Baroness Smith of Cluny KC about her recent appointment, representation in the profession, advancing the rule of law and "directly reporting into the Prime Minister".
"Constantly overwhelmed with work", says Crown Office and SCTS staff
Rough Justice Report reveals extent of crisis in Scotland’s courts and prosecution services, with many overworked.
Climate change bill passed
Carbon budget approach to setting climate targets agreed. Legislation that will see Scotland move to using five-year carbon budgets to set climate targets has been passed.
The independence of the legal profession: A European perspective
Pierre-Dominique Schupp, President of the Council of Bars and Law Societies of Europe dialled in from Paris to share his thoughts on the independence of the profession, advancing the rule of law, the use of AI, and international collaboration.
More help delivered and payments increase - but justice-wide collaboration needed to reform system
Today, Wednesday 6 November, the Scottish Legal Aid Board (SLAB) have published their annual report for 2023-24, illustrating that more help is being provided to those with civil and criminal problems.
The AI advantage: Is it time to say goodbye to repetitive work?
Ross McNairn, the CEO and Founder of Wordsmith AI, the main sponsor of the Society’s Annual Conference showcased how AI can save professionals time by streamlining and expediting tasks.
Scullion LAW expands as a result of surge in client demand
Scullion LAW is excited to announce the expansion of its Family Law department, driven by strong client demand for their specialist family law services.
Social mobility: surviving or thriving
In a thought-provoking presentation on Day 1 of the 2024 Annual Conference, Lindsay Jack, Head of Diversity, Careers, and Outreach at the Society, and Ayanda Ngobeni, a diploma student at the University of Edinburgh and an incoming trainee at CMS, discussed crucial topics related to social mobility within the legal profession.
Using AI to improve the administration of justice
'Using AI in the Justice System' was a well-received session on Day 2 of the Society’s 2024 Annual Conference.
Paul Mosson, Executive Director of Member Services & Engagement at the Society introduced Ellen Lefley, senior lawyer at JUSTICE, who provided an insightful overview of the complexities and implications of integrating AI into legal and judicial processes. The session outlined both opportunities and risks presented by AI, particularly in enhancing access to justice and the impartiality of decision-making.
Sustainability – opportunities and obstacles
Day 3 of the Society's 2024 Annual Conference had a focus on sustainability, with the theme of the day being titled, 'An Innovative and Sustainable Future'. One of the panel discussions titled "Sustainability Opportunities and Obstacles," saw various speakers from the legal profession, including Paul Gostelow, Alastair Morrison, Mark Cruikshank, and Kirsty Mitchell, share insights on the challenges and potential avenues for promoting sustainability within the legal industry.
Rule of law and independence of the profession
The Annual Conference saw an average of 450 delegates join online over the four days, and 230 in person on the final day. Experience the highlights through inspiring conversations, thought-provoking keynotes, and panel discussions, as shared by some of the delegates.
Scotland’s Legal Pioneers
At the Society’s Annual Conference, six inspiring members of the legal sector were announced as the inaugural winners of the Legal Pioneer Award.
Protecting children’s rights
We speak to Alison Reid, founder and chief executive of children’s charity Clan Childlaw, about how young people in Scotland can be supported to assert their rights.
Scullion LAW and Home Start celebrate ongoing support for families
The Family Law team at Scullion LAW recently celebrated their ongoing partnership with Home-Start Glasgow North and North Lanarkshire (HSGNNL), highlighting their continuous support and donations aimed at aiding families in need.
Scottish Law Commission seeks views
A discussion paper has been published reviewing the civil remedies available for domestic abuse.
Navigating AI challenges and risks
The Society, in association with Wordsmith, has launched their Guide to Generative AI. Covering both the benefits and risks, the Guide also highlights accessibility of such tools for smaller firms.
Introduction to international arbitration
Join the CIArb Scottish Branch for an immersive course on international arbitration, where you’ll explore the core principles of cross-border dispute resolution and how it connects to other global legal processes.
Blind love, clear contracts
Love is Blind highlighted the confusion that many have around prenups. This topic sparked intense discussions among some couples. Despite it being a practical safeguard, ensuring financial protection, many can feel they undermine the trust and commitment of a relationship.
President round-up
Susan Murray shares an update on the happenings as President since she took over in May.
Piece it all together
Jigsaw identification poses a serious risk by combining harmless details that can unintentionally reveal protected identities, threatening privacy and confidentiality.
The end of a BRP era
As the UK phases out BRPs in favour of eVisas, how will this shift affect your clients? With existing delays and confusion, could the situation worsen?
Advancing climate justice efforts
As the climate crisis intensifies, the concept of climate justice has gained prominence, linking environmental protection with law, human rights and social equity.
Not just a big day for employment lawyers
Thursday, 10th October 2024 – hailed by many employment lawyers as their “Christmas morning” – marked the publication of the Employment Rights Bill. The UK Government has called it the most significant overhaul of employment law in a generation. While the Bill does propose sweeping changes, it falls short of some of the more ambitious reforms outlined in Labour’s manifesto.