UK signing of international treaty a major step for lawyer protection

The Law Society of Scotland has hailed the signing of a new international treaty offering protection to legal professions and legal professional bodies in recognition of the vital work they do.

The United Kingdom is one of 17 Council of Europe member states that have now signed the Convention for the Protection of the Profession of Lawyer, after a meeting in Luxembourg last week.

The treaty recognises the important role of lawyers in democratic countries and provides for protection from harassment, attacks or interference as they exercise their professional duties.

Law Society of Scotland President Susan Murray said: “We are strongly supportive of this new treaty and are reassured that its provisions will apply to our work as a professional body and regulator and to the essential work of our members.

“The UK Government and other signatories have recognised that this is an important and proportionate response to growing reports of interference, harassment and even physical attacks on lawyers because of their work.

“Scottish solicitors supported by the Law Society play a vital role in upholding the rule of law and ensuring access to justice for all. This convention makes it clear that the independence of lawyers and their professional bodies must be respected.

“We will stand up for the independence of the profession here in Scotland and around the world whenever the work of lawyers comes under attack.”

The treaty must now be ratified by the signatory states before it comes in effect, with more countries expected to sign the convention.