Practice
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.
SPONSORED: Cashroom wins at the Scottish Legal Awards
Cashroom win the Excellence in Legal Technology Award at the 2024 awards in Glasgow.
OPG fees
As a quick reminder, the fees payable to the Public Guardian are set to increase on 1 November.
Global cyber capabilities
The Cyber Law Toolkit is known for its interactive online resource, offering guidance on international law and cyber operations. Widely used by governments and military legal experts worldwide, it features a comprehensive chart of key global cyber incidents and a database of national positions on international law and cyber operations.
Victim Notification Scheme
In response to the Independent Review, proposed changes to the scheme aim to provide victims of crime with enhanced support, advice, and information.
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.
Ordinary Actions Case Tracker
The SCTS would value your feedback following the launch of Ordinary Actions Case Tracker on the Civil Online Portal.
September 2024 Public Policy highlights
Take a look at the Public Policy highlights from the various Society committees for September 2024.
Presenteeism vs corporate real estate
While more companies are increasing the number of required office days or even monitoring employee work locations, some law firms are downsizing their corporate office space.