Shortly going to press, the magazine celebrates Lady Angiolini’s appointment as the new Keeper of the Signet, Secretary John Kerry’s admission as a new Fellow, and much more.
SPORTS LAW CONFERENCE
Lawyers from London, Manchester, Edinburgh, Glasgow, Aberdeen and even Milan gathered at the Signet Library for the second WS Sports Law Conference, in partnership with Lombardi Associates, and supported by industry body LawInSport on 13 October.
Expert speakers included a strong female representation from Polly Handford (Head of Legal, The FA), Carol Couse (Partner, Mills & Reeve) and Gill Treasurer (Head of Legal, British and Irish Lions). We were also privileged to hear from Paolo Lombardi (Managing Partner, Lombardi Associates), Calum Beatie (COO, The SPFL), David Thornton (Legal Counsel, The R&A), Sean Cottrell and Gabriella Lowe (both of LawInSport). This panel of outstanding specialists were ably chaired by Ian Laing WS (Counsel, Lombardi Associates). Thanks to all speakers, panelists and delegates who took part. We look forward to welcoming you to next year’s event.
OCTOBER EXHIBITION
The October display at the WS Society is a selection of our collection of letters, chosen and captioned by James Hamilton. The display includes a 1745 Rebellion Commission signed by Charles Edward Stuart and letters signed by John Wesley, John Ruskin, and Robert Louis Stevenson.
Jo Hockey (Research Librarian at the WS Society) notes,
‘Letters are one of the most powerful forms of handwritten creations - a direct communication between two people which can make for a charged viewing experience, particularly given the significance of the authors.’
If you would like to visit the collection, please email library@wssociety.co.uk.
WELCOME TO PATRICIA CHENEY
We are delighted to extend a warm welcome to Patricia Cheney, who joined the WS Society’s executive team this month. Patricia is a recent graduate of the University of St Andrews, with a MLitt in Peacebuilding and Mediation, and an accredited mediator. Before earning her postgraduate degree, she attended undergraduate studies at Flagler College, Florida, receiving two Bachelors of Arts in International Relations and Political Science, as well as a minor in religions and a concentration in anthropology. In studying these subjects, she aspired to work in the non-profit sector. Patricia joins the team to support our services for charities and expand capacity in the legal education programme. Please say hello to Patricia at the annual dinner, a charity trustee meeting, or an education event, soon!
NEW COUNCIL MEMBERS
The WS Society’s Council is a representative body of 21 Writers to the Signet, each serving a term of three years. Council has an important consultative function in providing the Society’s Trustees with feedback on the Society’s activities, in pursuit of our charitable objects and providing subscriber engagement. This month, we were delighted to welcome seven new members of Council to their first meeting following their appointment at this year’s AGM and an induction session on the Society’s priorities and business plan. The new Council members are -
Stephen Blane WS, Urquharts, a commercial litigator with over 30 years’ experience in the Scottish Courts.
Iain Burke WS, Burke Legal, representing clients in the Borders for three decades, with a focus on employment law.
Ian Laing WS, Lombardi Associates, one of Scotland’s leading sports lawyers.
Dr Alisdair MacPherson WS, University of Aberdeen, senior lecturer and co-director of the Centre for Scots Law, University of Aberdeen.
Karen McGill WS, Karen McGill Limited, an experienced employment lawyer running an independent HR and training consultancy.
Thomas Murdock WS, Blue Yonder, London based commercial tech General Counsel.
Rory Thomson WS, CMS Cameron McKenna, senior lawyer specialising in professional negligence.
The Society’s Trustees and Executive are looking forward to tapping into the collective experience of this impressive group of WS over their term on Council.
KEEPER’S INSTALLATION
In an historic ceremony in Court 1 at Parliament House on Thursday 26 October, Lady Elish Angiolini LT was sworn in as the new Lord Clerk Register of Scotland and Keeper of the Signet, by the Lord President.
Lady Angiolini is the first female to hold the honorific role, which is the oldest of the great offices of state in Scotland. Lady Angiolini was appointed by His Majesty the King, on the recommendation of the First Minister. She succeeds Lord Mackay of Clashfern KT. Representing the WS Society at the installation were Deputy Keeper, Mandy Laurie WS, WS Society CEO, Robert Pirrie WS, and Deputy CEO, Anna Bennett WS.
At the occasion, the Deputy Keeper, Mandy Laurie WS commented,
‘Lady Elish Angiolini is an inspiring figure in the law and public life and the Society is delighted at her appointment as Lord Clerk Register and Keeper of the Signet. The Keeper admits new Writers to the Signet and Lady Angiolini is a role model who combines all the qualities we uphold in the Scottish lawyer: learned in the law, of the utmost integrity, and grounded in common sense.’
CHRISTMAS CONCERT
We are delighted to once again celebrate Christmas at the Signet Library with the Choir of St Mary’s Episcopal Cathedral. This year's concert will take place on Tuesday 12 December at 6.00 pm. With much loved music from across the centuries and different parts of the world, this concert is a wonderful occasion to entertain family, friends, and colleagues in the run up to the festivities. Put the date in your diary and look out for the booking details which will be circulated soon.
LEGAL EDUCATION
The Society’s annual legal education programme closes with two further legal conferences. The Private Client Conference, in collaboration with STEP Scotland, takes place on 5 October with a focus on trust law reform. Speakers included the Rt Hon Lord Drummond Young and Professor Roddy Paisley. The final event of the year is the popular Sports Law Conference, produced with our partners at Lombardi Associates. At that event we are privileged to be joined by both the Head of Legal at the Football Association, Polly Handford, and the Head of Legal at the British & Irish Lions, Gillian Treasurer. Booking for both events is still open here.
OPENING OF THE LEGAL YEAR
This week Writers to the Signet participated in the traditional services to mark the opening of the legal year. The Lord President introduced the new year with a ceremony in Court 1 at Parliament House on Monday 25 September, followed by a service in St Giles’ Cathedral. The ceremony included speeches from the Lord President, then Ronnie Renucci, Vice Dean of Faculty and Sheila Webster WS, President of the Law Society of Scotland. Lord Carloway welcomed fifteen members of the Faculty of Advocates to the rank and dignity of King’s Counsel. On the previous day, Writers to the Signet took part in the Red Mass at St Mary’s Cathedral in Edinburgh, with colleagues from all branches of the profession, as well as a delegation of lawyers and judges from the USA. Pictured here, left to right, are Ian Laing WS, Kenneth Law WS, the Archbishop of St Andrews and Edinburgh, the Most Reverend Leo Cushley JCD, Jamie Kerr WS and Grace McGill WS.
SIGNET 200 EVENTS
Last year, the Society held a series of event to celebrate 200 years of the Signet Library. Videos of these events are now available:
In Conversation with Richard Demarco
With Amanda Catto, Creative Scotland
Signet Library, Edinburgh, 5 August 2022
Identity, Imagination and George IV in Edinburgh, 1822
Chapter 1: Professor Arthur Burns
Chapter 2: Dr Robert Pirrie WS (starts at 15 minutes)
Chapter 3: Q&A (starts at 53 minutes)
Chapter 4: Lord MacKay closing remarks (starts at 66 minutes)
Signet Library, Edinburgh, 1 September 2022
An Evening with The Right Hon. Lord Mackay of Clashfern, KT
Signet Library, Edinburgh 7 September 2022
In Conversation with Professor Thuli Madonsela
Introduced by The Right Hon. Lady Dorrian With Meera Selva, Internews
Mansfield Traquair, Edinburgh, 13 September 2022
WS EXHIBITION: THE ENLIGHTENMENT IN THE COUNTRYSIDE
In December 1936, the Signet Library paid 3/- for a 1758 copy of the Edinburgh Almanac, bound in vellum and small enough to fit a gentleman's pocket. Its blank pages were written out as a meteorological and personal diary by an anonymous author in which people were identified only by their initials.
Extensive research by conservator Jo Hockey has revealed the author as Writer to the Signet James Carmichael of Hailes (1716-1781), the owner of the Easter Hailes estate near Colinton. Marriage to Jennet, the daughter of Sir John Clerk of Penicuik (1676-1755) would tie Carmichael into a brilliant circle that included the geologist James Hutton, the engraver John Clerk of Eldin and, beyond them, most of the great names of the Scottish Enlightenment.
Much has been made of the urban origins of the Scottish Enlightenment, but politics was dominated by the great landowners and their rural familial seats with much of the new thinking of the time orientated to the countryside. James Hutton was one of many eighteenth century figures seeking to "improve" agriculture: he also took an interest in mining practice. John Clerk of Eldin accompanied Hutton and drew for him on his epochal journey through Glen Tilt. Carmichael had the management of the estate at Easter Hailes in his aegis and was interested enough in mining to journey to the Isle of Man in 1758 to visit James Lowther's 'coall works'.
The Upper West Library exhibition for September reflects these interests in the lives and works of Carmichael, his circle and other reforming thinkers and workers of this crucial period. It includes the WS Society’s own record of James Hutton’s WS apprenticeship, examples of eighteenth century mining maps by major cartographers and engravers of the day, an album of John Clerk of Eldin’s artworks and examples from Signet Library collections of the literature of agricultural improvement.
WS SUMMER SCHOLARS
Over the summer, nine law students divided into groups of three participated in a two-week research and personal development placement. The scholarship is a key element of our engagement with early-stage lawyers. Participants are given a contemporary legal issue working towards a digital presentation to external delegates and a written report for publication. The students work under the supervision of experienced practicing Solicitors and the Trainee Solicitor within the Executive team.
“The WS Summer Scholars programme was a great way to meet contemporaries from an array of different backgrounds, and the surprise topic was an excellent way to challenge oneself to approach a thought-provoking topic in an innovative way. I am proud that we managed to collaborate so seamlessly to deliver a satisfying presentation with online article. And I would highly recommend applying for it to anyone considering it as a next step!”
- Noah Norbash, Trainee Solicitor, Digby Brown
"The WS Society Summer Scholars Programme was an exceptional experience, seamlessly blending historical ambiance with contemporary legal discourse. The opportunity to delve into intricate topics and present before esteemed professionals was invaluable. It was a transformative journey that I'll cherish for years to come.”
- Matthew Paton, The University of Aberdeen
“I‘d say my time with the signet library was a fantastic way of getting to know Scotland’s legal landscape by meeting lots of wonderful people in various legal sectors. It provided an excellent opportunity to gain exposure to unfamiliar practice areas, which as a recent graduate, proved to be incredibly valuable.”
- Asymina Aza, Trainee, NOYB
The scholars’ articles are now all published on our website:
Legal Aid - What is the Cost of Justice?
Conceiving Change: In Vitro Fertilisation - Past, Present and Planning for Scots Law Practitioners.
The Legal Approach to National Heritage: Restitution and Repatriation of Cultural Property.
Applications for 2024 scholarships will open in March 2024. For more information, please contact Sophie Mills (smills@wssociety.co.uk).
PORTRAITS OF WOMEN IN LAW
Over the course of this week the Signet Library has provided the backdrop to a new project by the celebrated Dutch art historian and photographer, Dr Carla van de Puttelaar.
Dr van de Puttelaar is a regular visitor to the Signet Library, having researched the early David Scougall paintings which hang in the Commissioners’ Room for her book on 17th century Scottish Portraiture in 2022. Her new project, supported by Museums & Galleries Edinburgh, is an exhibition on Scottish portraiture in the legal profession, past and present. Featuring around 40 artworks, the show will include a small group of 17th and 18th century oil paintings of lawyers and judges in Scotland by leading portraitists of the era, including Scougall, John Baptiste de Medina, as well as Allan Ramsay and Henry Raeburn. The law was an entirely male dominated occupation at that time, and to bring the exhibition up to the present, displayed alongside these artworks will be contemporary photographs of women working in the profession in Scotland today. The exhibition will amplify the advances that have taken place over the centuries, which now enable women to fill positions in the highest echelons of the legal profession. Many Writers to the Signet have been invited to the Signet Library this week to participate. We look forward to seeing their portraits when the exhibition opens at the City Art Centre in late 2025.
SECRETARY JOHN KERRY AT THE SIGNET LIBRARY
There was an electric atmosphere at the Signet Library on 24 August, as members of the media and press joined an audience of 250 guests from the law, international politics, business, and academia for Secretary John Kerry’s exceptional address on the Climate Crisis. Many more joined us online by the livestream.
The event launched a new annual lecture series called ‘Scottish Global Dialogues’. Scottish Global Dialogues is a joint initiative of Beyond Borders Scotland and the WS Society, which will bring a speaker of international standing to the Signet Library each year during the Edinburgh Festivals. The series aims to promote non-partisan debate on international relations and global politics, in the interests of advancing citizenship and cultural exchange. The series is supported by the Scottish Government and Scottish Council on Global Affairs.
Secretary Kerry’s compelling speech took inspiration from figures of the Scottish Enlightenment, reflected in his surroundings at the Signet Library, in his call for cohesive and innovative climate action. Secretary Kerry was introduced by First Minister of Scotland, Humza Yousaf MSP.
A recording is available to watch online here.
ANNUAL DINNER 2023
A packed upper library will gather for the WS Society’s Annual Dinner on Friday 10 November, the inaugural dinner for Lady Elish Angiolini LT as the new Keeper of the Signet, following her appointment to succeed Lord Mackay of Clashfern. To mark the occasion, Lady Elish has kindly agreed to be the main speaker at the event. A distinguished audience of Writers to the Signet, law firms, clients, contacts, friends and more will assemble to enjoy the special atmosphere and timeless quality of this highlight in the legal year.
GRADUATION DAY
The Society’s Chief Executive, Robert Pirrie WS, was in London last week for his Doctoral graduation at the Royal Festival Hall. Robert recently completed his research thesis and was awarded a PhD in History by King’s College London (KCL). Robert’s research studies were focused on the Hanoverian monarchy’s relationship with Scottish and British national identity. His thesis supervisors were Professor Arthur Burns and Professor Paul Readman of KCL, and external examiners were Professor Colin Kidd, University of St Andrews, and Professor Stephen Conway, University College London. Robert’s thesis, titled ‘Imagined Monarchy: Constructing North Britain, c. 1746-1830’ is being published online by KCL. Robert is seen here taking in the sunshine outside Royal Festival Hall in his graduation gown.
MODERNISING SCOTTISH TRUST LAW
The WS Society and STEP Scotland annual joint conference for private client lawyers, taking place at the Signet Library on 5 October 2023, will focus on trust law reform. The role and practical value of trusts as vehicles for protection across the UK financial system has long been underplayed. As the Trust and Succession (Scotland) Bill moves through Parliamentary process, the conference agenda addresses the proposed changes to the administration of trusts and management of trust assets, and the consequent impact on individuals, businesses, charities, and institutions. The keynote address with be given by The Rt Hon Lord Drummond Young, who will be joined by further expert speakers, including Professor Roddy Paisley (Chair of Law, University of Aberdeen) to cover the legal, tax and practical aspects of the proposed legislation. The conference will be chaired by Sandy Lamb WS (Lindsays) and supported by Finders International. Further information and booking here.
ACCESS TO JUSTICE AND VICTIM SUPPORT
As part of the WS Society’s continuing agenda of events centred on fundamental human rights and the law, we are proud to launch the inaugural WS Abuse Law Symposium, which will address effective access to justice and remedies for survivors of abuse in Scotland.
Building on the momentum of past legal conferences in personal injury law, the symposium, which will take place on 12 September 2023, is designed for legal practitioners and other professionals active in this sensitive and demanding area of practice.
With a focus on trauma-informed advice, the programme includes updates from Julie Anne-Jamieson, Chief Executive of the Scottish Child Abuse Inquiry and Joanna McCreadie, Chief Executive of the Redress for Survivors Scheme. Bringing further perspective, we are pleased to have contributions from Assistant Chief Constable Bex Smith, Police Scotland and a medico-legal view from expert clinical psychologist, Professor Craig White. The symposium is chaired by Kim Leslie WS, Digby Brown and sponsored by Digby Brown. Booking opens soon. For further information please contact Anna Bennett WS
SUMMER EXHIBITION 2023
One of the WS Society’s charitable purposes is to advance the arts, heritage and culture through the Signet Library and its collections. To pursue this, we produce opportunities to welcome new audiences to the library, to experience the history of the Society and the finest neoclassical interior in Edinburgh. This summer, we are proud to produce an exhibition of new work by the international artist David Eustace, in collaboration with the Fine Art Society. Between 31 July and 13 August, the Signet Library will be open to the public to enjoy a collection of David’s beautiful photography and sculpture, under the title ‘THEREAFTER’.
Everyone is welcome and admission is free, 10.00 am and 4.00 pm each day.
We look forward to members, friends and new visitors joining us, from near and far, during the peak of Edinburgh's annual cultural life - festival season.
Our thanks to sponsors The Times, Vialex, Midton, Heritage Portfolio, Edinburgh Napier University and Balblair Whisky.
Photography: Albie Clark
SPORTS LAW CONFERENCE v2.0
With our partners at Lombardi Associates, we are pleased to bring some of the industry’s most experienced and recognised figures to Edinburgh for the second WS Sports Law Conference on 13 October 2023. In an exciting year for sport, the conference is timed to take place following the FIFA Women’s World Cup and during the Rugby World Cup, and because of this we are delighted to be joined by both Polly Hanford, Director of Legal, The FA and Gill Treasurer, Director of Legal, British & Irish Lions, among other expert speakers. The comprehensive programme covers the main issues of the day for sports lawyers and their clients, including the moving regulatory landscape in football and rugby, dispute resolution, transfer contracts, disciplinary issues, and representation. Attendees will also hear from a panel featuring a line up of in-house sports lawyers, working in both clubs and professional bodies. The conference is chaired by Ian Laing WS, Counsel, Lombardi Associates. Booking and further information here.