Welcome to the next generation

Graham Matthews

Edinburgh’s Signet Library is the suitably auspicious backdrop for today’s Admission Ceremony, during which I have the great honour of welcoming 65 new solicitors to the Scottish legal profession.

Today is an opportunity for the Law Society’s newest members, to reflect on years of hard work and celebrate the fruits of their labour.

I followed a slightly different path to becoming a solicitor – after finishing at university in Aberdeen, I served an apprenticeship in Musselburgh – but if I cast my mind back those 38 years, I am confident that my feelings of accomplishment, pride and dare I say relief, are not so different from those of the solicitors admitted today.

And having recently taken up the reins as president of the Law Society of Scotland, I can also identify with my new colleagues as they look to the future in anticipation of the opportunities and responsibilities beforethem. Itoohavemanynew experiences and learnings ahead of me.

Of course, the legal landscape has seen many changes since I first joined its ranks. Back in 1979 the profession was male dominated, our records were all hard copy and clients were predominantly consulted via the Royal Mail.

In contrast, last year’s figures revealed a 51 to 49 per cent female to male split in the profession and technical developments have revolutionised the way in which we work and communicate.

But nothing is more certain than change and more experienced members will look to future generations of Scottish solicitors in the drive to modernise our profession.

Equality and diversity, access to justice and technology are all areas which will benefit from the energy, intellect and innovation of the next generation.

But for now, this is a time to celebrate, thank those who have provided support along the way and take pride in becoming part of a globally-respected profession.

I am delighted to have been part of this special day and to welcome our new solicitors to the profession, congratulate them on their achievements and wish them all the very best for the future. n