Celebrate a milestone moment

◆ On the day of their admission, David Meighan welcomes new solicitors and wishes them well in their chosen profession

Today’s admissions ceremony marks an important milestone in the careers of Scotland’s newest solicitors. As they start their careers, there is much to be positive about. Hard work and dedication has led them to this point, and points to fulfilling legal careers ahead.

The profession values each solicitor who joins their ranks, knowing that their futures and that of the Scottish legal sector are inextricably linked. The confidence that firms and senior members of the profession have in the future is borne out by the fact that we’ve registered record numbers of traineeships over the past three years running.

Of course, that future won’t be without its challenges.

Our recent Profile of the Profession survey tells us the profession has made progress in key areas, such as improved retention of staff and a decrease in reported instances of discrimination, but we also know that there is more work to be done.

One of the key areas that needs attention and action to address relates to the mental health and wellbeing of our members, and the lasting impact of the Covid-19 pandemic. It seems like Covid should be long in the rear-view mirror but we’re still seeing its impact being felt in the profession, and across society as a whole.

Some of the burden of addressing these challenges will lie with the businesses employing our solicitors, some with the solicitors themselves. And, of course,

One of the key areas that needs action is the mental health and wellbeing of members

some of the burden will rightly lie with the Law Society of Scotland.

Wellbeing, equality, diversity and inclusion are all matters that are being strategically considered by us. Lawscot Wellbeing, for example, is a dedicated online resource for members, and we also support and promote the work of Lawcare, a mental wellbeing charity offering free, confidential support for anyone working in the sector.

As I’ve mentioned, the new solicitors entering the legal profession today are the future, and I do believe it’s a bright, if challenging, one. Congratulations to everyone being admitted to the Scottish legal profession today. I sincerely hope that you are proud of your fantastic achievement and I wish you a happy and successful career.

David Meighan is the Law Society of Scotland’s Admissions Manager.