Faculty/SEMLA event aims to increase bar diversity

An event aimed at increasing the diversity of practising advocates is to be held jointly by the Faculty of Advocates and SEMLA, the Scottish Ethnic Minorities Lawyers Association. 

“How to become an advocate” is aimed not only at minority ethnic groups but at anyone from groups which are under-represented at the Scottish bar, including (but not limited to) women; those with disabilities; single parents; carers; the care-experienced; or those from families where parents are not university-educated or in professional occupations. 

Taking place via Zoom on Thursday 30 September 2021, from 5.30 to 6.30pm, it will seek to demystify the process of becoming an advocate, covering topics such as the admission process, compulsory exams, available scholarships, the devilling period, and finding devilmasters and stables. The event will be chaired by Usman Tariq, advocate and co-founder of SEMLA, and attendees will hear from Richard Pugh, the Clerk of Faculty, who is responsible for admissions, and other members of Faculty about the process and their experiences.

It is open to anyone interested in a career at the bar, including students and those in the legal profession.

Registration is open at this link and questions can be submitted in advance. There will also be opportunities to ask questions at the event itself.