In 1774, King George III formally incorporated the Society of Advocates by Royal Charter, recognising its deep roots that stretched “beyond the memory of man”. Since then, the society has done much to consolidate the north east of Scotland’s place on the legal map.

To mark the historic occasion, the lord provost and members of Aberdeen City Council hosted a civic reception, where the Lord Lyon, King of Arms, Joe Morrow KC presented the society with letters patent for a full achievement of arms. The Lord Lyon said it was a “presentation that I make with a great deal of joy and celebration for your history, and with great warm good wishes for your continued influence within this city and within the practice of law.” In relation to the letters patent themselves, he said: “The supporters are the highest honour that I can grant any society or individual… you should be proud.”

The society’s president, Neil Smith, commented: “It has been my great fortune to be holding the reins as president of the society when this 250 year anniversary has occurred.”

He further expressed his gratitude “to our past president Martin Sinclair for initiating the celebration, for the expert input of our member and current procurator for the lord lyon, Alex Green and to the lord lyon, for considering our petition and attending this evening’s celebration. The society is also hugely appreciative of the lord provost and the City of Aberdeen for recognising the anniversary at this civic reception.”

Situated at Advocates’ Hall on Concert Court, the Society of Advocates is a unique part of the city’s heritage. For centuries it was responsible for the training, examination, and regulation of all legal practitioners in Aberdeen and the surrounding area, a duty now assumed by the Law Society of Scotland. 

The Society of Advocates’ role has developed significantly over the years and today it serves to promote professional standards and expertise within the region, and to foster rapport between local legal professionals. Its membership comprises local practitioners and academics, alongside members of the judiciary.