Accredited paralegal roundup

Having recently celebrated 10 years of its existence, the Accredited Paralegal status continues to grow and thrive as it provides recognition for paralegals throughout Scotland. The total membership is now 587 paralegals, with 47 new members joining the status since the start of February. In that time, a further seven paralegals have successfully completed the accredited paralegal traineeship. In recognition of paralegals gaining the accreditation, new members are detailed in the Journal each month.

New committee secretary

Laura McBain has recently taken over as secretary of the Accredited Paralegal Committee. She has been involved in the running of the status for the last three years and has been in touch with many existing members during this time. She said: “I am delighted to take on the role as secretary to the Accredited Paralegal Committee. Having been involved with the status for the last three years I understand the pivotal role the committee plays in maintaining the high standards of the status. I look forward to working with the committee and all of our members going forward.”

Committee vacancies 

The committee is looking for new members and would welcome applications from both solicitor and paralegal members. 

The committee is responsible for taking decisions in response to applications for entry to the scheme, approving new practice areas, maintaining and developing existing practice areas and setting CPD policy for accredited paralegals.

Further information on vacancies will be available on the committee recruitment section of the Society’s website in September. If you have any questions in the meantime, please contact Laura McBain at accreditedparalegals@lawscot.org.uk

Practice area competency review 

As part of its ongoing work, the committee is undertaking a review of the practice area competencies to ensure that they remain fit for purpose. The committee recently reviewed civil litigation: debt recovery, and the updated competencies can be viewed on the Society’s website. Please take the time to familiarise yourself with the changes if this is your area of work. 

Changes to the remaining practice area competencies will be communicated as and when they have been reviewed by the Accredited Paralegal Committee.