Law Society news
Women’s Access Network launches
The Law Society of Scotland has launched the Women’s Access Network to connect senior women in the legal profession with female solicitors and trainees looking to take the next steps in their careers.
Qualified one way cost shifting update
Delays to the commencement of Qualified One Way Costs Shifting (QOCS) rules have been brought about by the introduction of group proceedings rules, Brexit, Covid and resourcing pressures. The rules are now under active consideration by the relevant SCJC members and the anticipated commencement date, is around mid-June.
Potential industrial action by Procurators Fiscal
An indicative ballot of FDA members in the Crown Office showed that 90% of respondents were in favour of strike action. Law Society, President Amanda Millar says that this shows how significant these solicitors' concerns have become.
Creative solutions needed to ensure court business continues
Debbie Wilson, Convener of the Law Society of Scotland Criminal Law Committee comments on the latest update from the Scottish Courts and Tribunals Service on the work being done to ensure court business goes ahead and the need to continue to look for solutions.
New UK AML guidance for the legal sector
The Legal Sector Affinity Group has completed an extensive revision and redraft of the UK AML guidance for the legal sector.
Nominations sought for Law Society honorary membership
The Law Society of Scotland is inviting nominations for honorary membership for outstanding service for the public good by a Scottish solicitor.
Legal aid support package a positive step forward
The Scottish Government has confirmed details of a revised package of legal aid support. Our President, Amanda Millar, has welcomed the package as a positive step forward.
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Law Society pays tribute to Professor Robert Rennie
The Society's president Amanda Millar has paid tribute to Emeritus Professor Robert Rennie who has died recently after a short illness.
Public Policy highlights – December 2020
Our policy committees analyse and respond to proposed changes in the law - read more about the key pieces of work they completed in December.
Revised National Risk Assessment of Money Laundering and Terrorist Financing
HM Treasury has published an updated UK National Risk Assessment (NRA) of Money Laundering and Terrorist Financing. Find out the key risks and actions required.
Response to Lord President statement on court business
Even with reduced court business from 12 January 2021 announced by the Lord President, more work must be done to ensure all of Scotland's court estate is safe for users.
Participating in remote jury trials
Guidance for practitioners appearing in remote court hearings.
Fraud alert - fake solicitor
Latest fraud alert - we have been informed that a person calling themselves David Moreno has claimed to be a Scottish-qualified practising solicitor.
Declining to appear in custody cases
Can a defence agent decline to appear in custody cases? Our Director of Professional Practice, Fiona Robb answers.
Concerns raised about attending court during Covid lockdown
Law Society President Amanda Millar responds to concerns raised about attending court during the current Covid-19 lockdown.