Industry updates
Rough justice, Society responds
In case you missed it, a few weeks ago the Journal covered the publication of the Rough Justice report. Over the course of the past few years the Public and Commercial Services Union (PCS) has consistently heard from their members about the workload pressures facing them in the Crown Office and Procurator Fiscal Service (COPFS) and the Scottish Courts and Tribunal Service (SCTS).
The Prisoners (Early Release) (Scotland) Bill published
Today, legislation to ensure prisons continue to function safely and effectively following a significant increase in the prison population over the past year has been published.
Scotland's Migration Service expanded
Scotland’s Migration Service, which provides information and advice for people, employers and investors, has been expanded to offer support to a wider range of individuals.
The Herald Law Awards of Scotland 2024 winners
Members of the profession gathered on Friday, 15 November in Glasgow to hear the winners of The Herald Law Awards of Scotland 2024 be announced.
Double success for Macleod & MacCallum
Last week proved to be a double award-winning week for Macleod & MacCallum, Solicitors, Estate Agents and Lettings Agents, based in Inverness and Portree.
An immigration perspective
Following the American election, the profession saw a wave of enquiries from US citizens, especially those with existing links to the UK. Jacqueline Moore (immigration partner at Thorntons) shares the three key issues she believes will help solicitors across the sector support US citizens at this historical juncture.
A momentous occasion for The Society of Advocates in Aberdeen
One of Aberdeen’s oldest professional organisations celebrated its 250th year of incorporation at Aberdeen Town House, where they were presented with a full achievement of armorial bearings.
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".
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.
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.
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.
60 seconds with the Society's Rural Affairs Committee Convener
Sophie McIvor spoke to Jamie Whittle about his career, being the Society's Rural Affairs Committee convener, and the recent response to crofting law reform.
Scottish Law Commission seeks views
A discussion paper has been published reviewing the civil remedies available for domestic abuse.
President round-up
Susan Murray shares an update on the happenings as President since she took over in May.
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.
OPG fees
As a quick reminder, the fees payable to the Public Guardian are set to increase on 1 November.
Decade-old provisions still light the sky
SPICe has published an updated briefing outlining the legislative framework in relation to the supply, sale, use, storage and possession of fireworks.
September 2024 Public Policy highlights
Take a look at the Public Policy highlights from the various Society committees for September 2024.