Law Society of Scotland
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Law Society of Scotland welcomes introduction of Legal Services Bill

The Law Society of Scotland has backed reform as it welcomed the publication of the Legal Services (Scotland) Bill today, Thursday 1 October.

The Bill will set out a framework to allow solicitors the option of adopting an alternative business model to the traditional law firm. This could include setting up in business with non-lawyers, other professionals and allowing non-lawyers to own entities providing legal services. Currently in Scotland, only solicitors can own law firms and form partnerships with other solicitors.

Ian Smart, President of the Law Society, said: “The Society has been active in driving the debate on alternative business structures (ABSs) and I am very pleased that the Legal Services (Scotland) Bill has been introduced into Parliament.

“The Society believes that Scotland’s legal profession should be able to adapt to best meet the needs of modern society and a global economy. Scots lawyers are well respected around the world and we want to ensure that our members have access to the opportunities that ABSs could present to adopt new practices, to deliver the services their clients expect and develop their businesses in Scotland, as well as elsewhere in the UK and overseas.

 "However it will be vitally important that the Bill ensures the independence of the legal profession, promotes access to justice and maintains robust consumer protections and high standards among those delivering legal services. Effective regulation will be key to any plans for change.”

Mr Smart added that while there was much to be learned from recent Westminster legislation which has paved the way for the creation of alternative business structures in England and Wales, it was crucial for Scotland to develop its own solutions in response to the calls for change in the legal sector,.

He said: “Scotland is a distinct legal jurisdiction with a much smaller and more scattered population than England and Wales and this, among the many other considerations, must also be taken into account.

“We look forward to engaging with the Scottish Government, the Parliament and other interested parties in the future development of legal services in Scotland.” 

Link to the Scottish Parliament website to view the Legal Services Bill.
 
ENDS

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION: Please contact Val McEwan or Suzy Powell on 0131 226 8884. Email: valeriemcewan@lawscot.org.uk / suzypowell@lawscot.org.uk