President’s Jottings

President’s Jottings

AUTUMN 2024

Surrey Law Society Awards: Celebrating Achievements and Giving Back

It’s that time of year again! Can you believe how quickly the year has flown by? Once again, we find ourselves preparing for one of the biggest events in our calendar—the Surrey Law Society Awards! As always, this is a time for reflection, celebration, and looking ahead, and I couldn’t be more excited for what’s in store this year.

A Year of Giving Back and Inspiring the Future

As many of you know, in my manifesto I committed to using my term to promote access to the legal profession, ensuring that we’re opening doors for aspiring lawyers who dream of joining our ranks. Through the “Pay It Back” scheme, I’ve requested members to provide work placements and valuable experience to those eager to make their mark. It’s been such a joy to see firms engaging with this initiative, and I can’t wait to reveal which firm will receive the Access to the Profession Recognition at this year’s Awards. I’ll have the honour of presenting this on behalf of all those ambitious future lawyers whose careers are being launched by your generosity and support.

Supporting Cancer Research UK: A Cause Close to My Heart

This year, I also chose to dedicate our fundraising efforts to a cause that is incredibly personal to me—Cancer Research UK. This charity does life-changing work, and I’m sure many of you have seen the impact their research has had on the lives of those affected by cancer. To help support this important cause, we’ll be providing QR codes for donations at the event, and there will also be a silent auction on the night. I would love for everyone to dig deep and contribute whatever they can—every donation truly makes a difference.

Food Tasting and Exciting Presenters

In preparation for the awards, Helen and I had the delightful task of attending a food tasting at G Live, and I have to say, it was absolutely fantastic! We sampled some incredible dishes that I know will impress everyone attending the awards dinner. Plus, we had the pleasure of catching up with our awards presenter, Alex Maqueen. If you haven’t had the chance to meet him yet, let me tell you—he’s going to be brilliant! Alex has such a charismatic presence, and I’m really looking forward to hearing his speech on the big night.

What’s Happening with the TA6 Consultation?

Switching gears for a moment, the TA6 consultation is currently in full swing, and it has certainly sparked a lot of conversation within the community. I know there has been some disappointment expressed regarding certain elements of the questionnaire, and I have a Zoom meeting scheduled next week as part of the in person consultations being held by The Law Society. It will be interesting to see what the outcomes are, and I’ll be sure to update everyone once we have more clarity on the next steps.

Welcome to Our New Committee Members

I’m also thrilled to introduce two new members to our committee— Hayley Lalsing from Charles Russell Speechlys and Ema Jones from Peacock & Co. Welcome aboard! I’m confident that both Hayley and Ema will bring fresh perspectives and valuable contributions to the team, and I look forward to working closely with them as we continue to move the Society forward.

A Thoughtful Farewell to Judith Williamson

Lastly, I want to take a moment to express my sincere condolences to Owen White and Catlin LLP on the passing of their Managing Partner, Judith Williamson, our thoughts go out to her family, friends, and colleagues during this difficult time.

See You at the Surrey Law Society Awards!

With all these exciting developments and heartfelt moments in mind, I look forward to seeing many of you at the Surrey Law Society Awards. It promises to be an unforgettable night of celebration, giving back, and coming together as a community. Let’s make it an evening to remember, and good luck to all those shortlisted! 

Dawn Lawson

President Surrey Law Society

Through the “Pay It Back” scheme, I’ve requested members to provide work placements and valuable experience to those eager to make their mark.