SYLA and WS Society announce competition winner

The Scottish Young Lawyers’ Association and the WS Society have announced that the winner of their Writing Competition for 2015 has now been found.

SYLA members were asked to write on the topic of: “Innovation is the buzz word in the Scottish legal profession at the moment. What opportunities and challenges does the passing of the Courts Reform (Scotland) Act 2014 mean for the future of legal services in Scotland?”

After consideration of the entries, John Morgan, a trainee solicitor at Brodies, has been selected as this year’s winner.

Anna Bennett of the WS Society said: “We were delighted to once again support the SYLA & WS Society Competition this year and offer young lawyers the opportunity to reflect upon the landmark passing of this Act.

“All of the entries were of a very high standard, however it was felt that John’s essay stood out because of its consideration of how the legal profession will deal with litigation, and how this will impact on competition among solicitors and advocates.

The judges also highly commended the entries of Laura Henderson of Lyon & Turnbull and Jennifer Lothian of HBJ Gateley, who are joint runners-up.”

Mr Morgan’s article will now be published in the Signet Magazine and he will be admitted to the WS Society as an affiliate member, before Lord Mackayon 3 November 2015.

Emma Boffey, president of the Scottish Young Lawyers’ Association added: “It was great to once again receive so many high quality entries to the competition.

“All of John, Laura and Jennifer will receive a free space at a SYLA conference on their choice over the coming 12 months.

“We are looking forward to launching the competition for 2016 shortly.”