Number of aspiring advocates shows an increase

The first steps to a career at the Bar have been taken by 26 aspiring Advocates, the largest number of devils for at least ten years.

The group has come together in the Mackenzie Building, home of the Faculty’s training suite, at the start of the nine-month devilling period.

A new scholarship scheme is seen as partly responsible for this year’s increased intake. The scheme now includes the Lord Hope Scholarship, funded by a voluntary levy on practising Advocates.

Roddy Dunlop, QC, Treasurer of Faculty, said: “Faculty is delighted to see so many devils starting this year. Part of the increase in numbers is down to the generosity of members in contributing to the new Lord Hope Scholarship, which has seen the number of scholars rise from the usual two to a total of ten.

“Looking beyond that, however, it is testament to the ongoing relevance and vitality of the Scottish Bar. I wish all of this year’s devils every success, in what I know will be an enjoyable period of devilling under the estimable Director of Training and Education, Neil Mackenzie QC, and in their careers thereafter. “

Neil Mackenzie said: “We are off to a flying start; the 26 devils have settled in well and we have already covered a lot of ground.

“They come from many different backgrounds, bringing a buzz and vibrancy to the Mackenzie Building which will be carried into life at the Bar in the future.”