President's column: August 2022

Celebrations. Not the tub of assorted chocolates, but the events that have been on my mind this month. Being able to get back together to celebrate births, weddings and other cultural events has been a huge boost these last few months. I was absolutely delighted therefore to be able to host our first in-person admissions ceremony in three years. 

It was fantastic to return to the Signet Library (itself celebrating its 200th anniversary this year), which looked utterly resplendent with the summer sun streaming in through the windows, and to have over 50 newly qualified solicitors in the room. These were newly qualified for this year, some who had qualified previously but wanted to have an in-person ceremony, and also a few qualifying from different jurisdictions. It was such a joy to speak with them, to be inspired by their enthusiasm and also to speak to family and friends and hear how proud they all were. 

It is important that the admissions ceremony is given such importance, as it is the cumulation of seven years’ hard work. All of those who are admitted to the roll for the first time should take the time to pause and celebrate the achievement. Not many people can say they are Scottish solicitors, and the brand, as we know from our research at the Society, is highly regarded both here at home and internationally. I would encourage all newly qualified solicitors to take the time to attend the ceremony and enjoy celebrating your achievement with friends and family.

Indeed, I would encourage all firms to make sure this is celebrated too – the newly qualified members of our teams are the lifeblood of our firms. Make sure we take the time to recognise the commitment, hard work and dedication it takes. 

In court – at last!

There was further cause for celebration this month as I introduced our latest group of solicitor advocates to the Court of Session. This was a particular highlight for me, as (a) it was my first in-person Law Society of Scotland appearance as President, and (b) I can now say I have appeared in court! Lord Richardson was fantastic and, once again, friends and family were in attendance which makes it all the more special. Well done to all of you; and a particular thank you to Craig Connal QC who is standing down after almost 20 years as convener of the Society’s Civil Rights of Audience course. Thanks for your service Craig, and for keeping me right on the day. 

I’m also looking forward to celebrating the Law Society of Northern Ireland’s centenary by visiting Belfast in September for their Centenary Council Dinner. I am sure it will be a fantastic event and will allow us to continue to strengthen our links, not just with Northern Ireland, but with the
law societies in all four jurisdictions. 

On tour

Finally, I am extremely excited that some of my constitutional tour dates are in the diary! My plan, as you may remember, is to visit all of our constituencies this year and my first areas to visit will be Aberdeen, Banff, Peterhead and Stonehaven; Ayr, Dumfries, Kirkcudbright and Stranraer; Greenock, Kilmarnock and Paisley; and Dingwall, Dornoch, Elgin, Inverness, Kirkwall, Lerwick, Lochmaddy, Portree, Stornoway, Tain and Wick. So nearly the four corners of Scotland covered! I am very excited about these meetings and delighted to have them face to face. We have some ideas for slightly different engagement in some areas,
so watch this space.