Council profile

What is your own practice area?

I am a personal injury lawyer. I have been a partner with Digby Brown since 2009. We have offices in Edinburgh, Glasgow, Dundee, Glenrothes and Inverness. I work in our Correspondent Department. This means I work with other solicitors, as their corrrespondent, handling all types of personal injury litigation.

What motivates you to get up on a dreary Monday morning?

I work with people for whom I have such respect. Every single person at Digby Brown makes a valuable contribution. Also, being a lawyer is still my dream job.

How long have you been a member of Council and how did you become involved?

Seven years. I was encouraged to stand by a good friend.

In what specific capacities have you served (office bearer, committee or other)?

Currently I am convener of Civil Justice. I also sit on the Remuneration Committee.

What have been the highlights for you personally?

I was a member of Council when our first female President, Caroline Flanagan, was elected – an inspiring woman.

How do you keep in touch with the members you represent?

Email communication by way of newsletter from me and my fellow Edinburgh Council members

What do you see as the main issues that your members want Council to address at present?

The review of cost and funding of litigation under Sheriff Principal Taylor; and the impact ABS will have on the provision of legal services in the market.

What do you see as the other main issues that Council has to address at present?

Communication with our members.

Are there further changes you would like to see that might improve the way Council works?

As with many things in life, it is often the most simple of changes that have the greatest impact – more plugs please for our laptops at meetings.

If you could change only one thing for your members, what would it be?

The recession and the impact it has had on all our members, but most especially on those who are leaving university.

What are your interests outside the law?

Food – cooking and eating; and to counteract the indulgences, running.