4 minute read
President’s Jottings
President’s Jottings
SPRING 2024
Much like the weather, the market appears to have once again picked up. Whilst uncertainty remains over what the Bank of England will do with regards to interest rates over the coming months, I have found consumer confidence appears to have stabilised, instructions are increasing weekly, and I hope all our members are having a similar experience coming into Spring.
In January SLS responded to two SRA Consultations Proposals to change how the English or Welsh language proficiency of qualified lawyers is assured – relating to proposals to change when and how the SRA seek assurance that a qualified lawyer who has been granted an exemption from SQE2 has the English or Welsh language proficiency needed to practise as a solicitor of England and Wales, and Changes to the rules on Solicitors Qualifying Examination (SQE) exemptions – relating to a new rule that would prevent qualified lawyers from being granted an exemption from part or parts of the SQE that they have previously attempted and failed. An analysis of the responses and any corresponding policy decision is yet to be published.
On 7th March I was invited to host the inaugural County Societies Group (CSG) Conference, a pioneering collaboration uniting the local law societies of Cheshire & North Wales, Devon & Somerset, Kent, Leicestershire, Newcastle, and our very own Surrey. The County Societies Group Conference was a testament to our shared commitment to delivering affordable training to our collective members. Born out of a dedication to accessibility and relevance, this conference series represented the culmination of efforts from societies across the country and the breaking down of geographical barriers. The conference programme offered an invaluable opportunity to gain up to date knowledge on key issues affecting conveyancing practitioners with helpful and informative insights from Ian Quayle, Allie Parsons, Sally Redman, Andrew Roddy and Richard Snape, each an authority in their respective fields.
April will see SLS host further educational seminars in the way of Private Client and Family Law updates and a Guide for Conveyancers on navigating properties let on an Airbnb basis in the UK. Booking is available via the SLS website.
Later this month I have been invited to the University of Law's Awards Evening at Guildford Campus to present an award to the Winner of Highest Mark in PgDL/MA Conversion and I will look forward to sharing the details of the successful aspiring Lawyer in the next edition of the SLS magazine. On 9th May Helen Opie CEO of SLS and myself will be attending the Local Law Societies Town Hall Meeting which will include a chat with the Attorney General and Nick Emmerson, President, Law Society of England and Wales.
Cancer Research UK is my nominated charity and one which is incredibly close to my heart. Cancer has been very much brought to the forefront of the news in recent weeks with both King Charles and Princess Catherine having been diagnosed with Cancer. I am therefore delighted to announce that SLS will be hosting an exciting new fundraising initiative “Sailing for a Cure” on 26th April 2024 where we will be inviting members to join us to cruise along the Thames aboard the New Southern Belle, a vibrant Missisippi-style sternwheeler, embarking from Kingston and journeying along a stunning part of the Thames from Hampton Court to Richmond. Tickets are now on sale and will include a drinks reception, delectable bowl food, live music and a raffle/auction. We have secured more than 20 incredible donations including flight simulator experiences, hot air balloon rides, afternoon tea at the Ritz and a 1969 Series E-Type Roadster for the weekend. We will be joined by representatives of Cancer Research UK who will provide branding for the event. This is an excellent opportunity for member firms to showcase their philanthropy and corporate responsibility. Helen and I have worked really hard to organise a fantastic evening in a beautiful setting where we can let our hair down whilst hopefully raising as much money as possible for Cancer Research UK and I very much hope to see as many of you there as possible.
Finally, a reminder that nominations for the 2024 SLS Legal Awards will close on 26th April. The Awards have grown year on year. As well as being a fantastic social evening and networking opportunity the awards are an excellent opportunity to showcase the wealth of incredible talent that our membership has to offer. Good luck to all applicants!
Have a wonderful Easter.
