Law Society news
Law Society steps up efforts over climate crisis
The Law Society of Scotland is stepping up its efforts to lead and support the legal sector in tackling the climate crisis by launching a new Sustainability Committee.
Bail bill only a partial solution to unjust remand numbers
We've given broad support for proposed changes to bail and release from custody arrangements, but remain deeply concerned at the high number of accused people being held on remand.
Law Society of Scotland statement on the death of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II
Like the whole country, the Law Society of Scotland mourns the loss of Her Majesty, Queen Elizabeth II. We extend our heartfelt condolences to the members of the Royal Family, who will be in our thoughts and prayers in the days and weeks ahead.
AML Round up
The ever increasing importance and visibility of AML and other economic crime issues at international, domestic and sectoral level means that it's vital for solicitors to be aware of the latest developments. Our latest AML round up provides the latest updates and news for the legal sector.
Programme for government 2022-23 comment
The Society's President Murray Etherington has commented on today's Scottish Government programme for government for 2022-23.
Justice not served by Scottish sexual offence proposals
The Law Society of Scotland has raised serious concerns about a possible move to judge-only sexual offence trials in Scottish courts, and the creation of additional courts outside the existing judicial structure.
Clark Foundation signs up as new Lawscot Foundation sponsor
The Lawscot Foundation’s programme to assist aspiring solicitors from less-advantaged backgrounds will be further expanded, thanks to a new sponsorship agreement with the Clark Foundation.
Record-breaking trend continues for new solicitor traineeships
The Scottish legal sector is currently on track to record its highest ever number of solicitor traineeships in a year, maintaining the momentum from a record-breaking 2021.
Solicitor Accounts Rules consultation launched
The Law Society of Scotland is seeking law firm cashroom managers'/solicitors’ views on proposals to update its current Accounts Rules.
The proposed changes aim to modernise the rules and where possible, simplify requirements placed on members while ensuring continued high professional standards and robust protection for the public.
Scottish Government must address unregulated deprivations of liberty
The Scottish Government’s continued failure to ensure deprivations of liberty are appropriately regulated must be addressed as a matter of priority, according to the Law Society of Scotland.
Law Society highlight deep concerns in responses to Scottish Government's Not Proven Consultation
Stuart Munro, Convener of the Law Society of Scotland’s Criminal Law Committee has responded to the Scottish Government's publication and analysis of responses to its Not Proven Consultation and highlighted some deep concerns from those with the greatest understanding of our justice system.
HM Treasury approval for AML guidance for the legal sector
HM Treasury has approved updated anti-money laundering guidance developed by the Legal Sector Affinity Group
New report demonstrates consensus on the need to reform legal services regulation in Scotland
The Scottish Government has published its analysis of responses to its recent consultation on reforming the regulation of legal services. We welcome the high level of agreement from respondents on improving regulatory processes.
New solicitor advocates introduced
Eight new solicitor advocates granted extended rights of audience by our Council have been introduced to the Court at a ceremony at Parliament House.
Summer school gives legal inspiration to less-advantaged pupils
Nearly 100 less-advantaged pupils have shown their ambition to join the legal profession by attending a four-day virtual summer school hosted by the Society.
Law Society responds to offer on legal aid
Law Society President Murray Etherington has responded to an announcement from the Scottish Government on legal aid, saying the funding offer falls far short of the investment the Society has argued for and believes is necessary to retain solicitors in the legal aid system to ensure access to justice for all.
Law Society responds to offer on legal aid (1)
Law Society President Murray Etherington has responded to an announcement from the Scottish Government on legal aid, saying the funding offer falls far short of the investment the Society has argued for and believes is necessary to retain solicitors in the legal aid system to ensure access to justice for all.
New faces for Law Society of Scotland Council
Iain Jane has been appointed as the new Law Society Council member for solicitors in Aberdeen, Banff, Peterhead and Stonehaven. He is joined by new lay member Lesley Watt and Scottish Government solicitor Ruaraidh Macniven, who has been reappointed for a three-year term.
The 2022 In-House Rising Star winner announced
Mariel Kaney, Deputy Legal Secretary to the Lord President’s Private Office has been named the winner of the Law Society of Scotland’s In-House Rising Star Award 2022.
Law Society comment on the First Minister's plans for a second Scottish independence referendum
Murray Etherington, President of the Law Society of Scotland has commented on the First Minister's statement today on the Scottish Government's plans for a second Scottish independence referendum.
LawCare at 25 – ahead of the wellbeing curve
As we mark the 25th anniversary of LawCare, it's a timely moment to reflect on the charity's enormous contribution supporting individuals and changing attitudes to mental health and wellbeing in the legal profession.
Human rights must not be diminished by Bill of Rights
The Law Society of Scotland has said that existing rights of those living in the UK must not be diminished by the the Bill of Rights Bill introduced by the UK Government.