In a historic first, The Law Society of England and Wales, the professional association representing solicitors in England and Wales, is breaking tradition to host a regional call ceremony outside of London according to JURIST.
Historically, solicitors in England and Wales have had their calls — their admission ceremonies into the profession — in London, specifically, at Holborn, the traditional “home” of law. Home to buildings such as the Royal Court of Justice, the Rolls Building, the Law Society, and The Inns of Courts, it has been the exclusive site for these admissions ceremonies. However, after a year of discussions, this is set to change.
The first-ever regional call will be held at Leeds Civic Hall on the 11th September 2023. Lubna Shuja, President of The Law Society, will be presiding over the ceremony.
This move is seen as a significant change for both the Law Society and the legal profession, in part due to the costs associated with traveling to and staying in London. As these costs have often dissuaded many solicitors from attending their ceremonies, despite it being a requirement under the Solicitors Act 1974, the introduction of regional calls is expected to mitigate these challenges.
It’s worth noting that the Law Society has already begun embracing virtual ceremonies during the height of the pandemic, aligning with the broader transition towards a more online society. Emma Lilley, an in-house solicitor who has been a vocal proponent of these changes, told JURIST that she was “relieved” upon hearing that the first regional admission ceremony was finally scheduled.
More information is expected to be shared in an upcoming JURIST interview with Law Society President Shuja on August 16.