Lauren Weetman

The pro bono effort of solicitors has a profound impact on both those seeking access to legal advice and the broader legal community alike. Efforts that shine particularly brightly are those in collaboration with university law clinics that fulfil a unique role in extending access to justice for vulnerable individuals, while broadening the experiences of law students. This collaboration not only addresses a critical gap in legal services but ensures ordinary members of the public receive high-quality advice without the cost concerns.

In pursuit of ensuring access to justice for all, the University of Strathclyde Law Clinic provides free legal assistance to those who cannot afford it but are not eligible for legal aid. However, even with the dedication of student advisors there are limitations to what we can achieve without the additional input of volunteer solicitors, who play a crucial part in helping the clinic to meet its aims on a pro bono basis.

Solicitors bring a wealth of practical knowledge and experience to law clinics, whether it’s interpreting complex legal jargon, guiding clients through their legal options or talking them through critical steps in the legal process. For many clients, having access to legal advice in the manner offered at Strathclyde Law Clinic Initial Advice Clinic project can be the difference between successfully navigating a legal issue and being overwhelmed by the system. As the coordinator of this project, I see at first-hand the enquirer’s initial query through to the assistance provided by solicitors at the IAC. Most importantly I see the positive impact on those who approach our service and how they are empowered to understand the law and progress claims.

The collaboration between solicitors and university law clinics characterises the very core of pro bono work. To this end the Initial Advice Clinic project facilitates appointments between members of the public and solicitors that provides much needed guidance in a manageable format that allows solicitors to work flexibly around their day-to-day commitments.

In many instances, solicitor volunteers bring specialisation in areas of the law that greatly enhances the clinic’s ability to serve a wider range of enquires. Their expertise in areas such as employment, housing, consumer, civil and immigration law can provide life-changing outcomes for those who might otherwise face challenging obstacles. However, as a future facing institution, we are always working towards expanding the areas of law in which we can advise – the IAC is the perfect format for this, whether in relation to wills, succession and executries through to family law matters. Our volunteer solicitors can provide that one off piece of advice in an area that students cannot advise in and often assist a person to have the confidence to seek further legal advice.

As we participate in Pro Bono Week it’s worth reflecting on the powerful impact that solicitor pro bono work can have and how it contributes the role of the wider legal profession in Scotland. By giving freely of a small portion of their time and expertise solicitors play a critical role in supporting law clinics and empowering the next generation of legal professionals, while making a lasting difference to the lives of those most in need of legal help.

Lauren Weetman is a student advisor and IAC coordinator at the University of Strathclyde Law Clinic