Fairness guide to success

The Society has just published a practical guide to how firms can improve practice, broaden skills and develop new business by understanding the needs of different clients and staff.

The guide, Ensuring fairness, creating opportunities, is designed to support solicitors in understanding why diversity is important, and central to building a sustainable and profitable business.

Key features of the report are summarised in the separate leaflet included with this issue, which solicitors are encouraged to keep for reference.

Neil Stevenson, Director of Representation and Professional Report, said: “The solicitors’ profession in Scotland is already known for its high standards of professional excellence and core values that include honesty, trust and integrity.

“In upholding that reputation and maintaining the key role solicitors play in the lives of individuals, businesses and the wider community, an understanding of the diversity of clients and staff is vital. It is also essential to running a successful business.

“The Society regards the promotion of equality and diversity as central to the development of a modern profession, which is why we have produced this simple and accessible guide. It includes handy tips and case studies that show how other firms have tackled common challenges.”

He said the guide would be useful to firms of all sizes and those working in every sector.

He added: “We encourage all solicitors to read the guidance and discuss it as a firm or in-house team, considering what may need to be done to ensure all solicitors can meet the requirements of equality and gain the benefits of diversity.”

The full guidance can be downloaded from www.lawscot.org.uk/diversity ..