University of Strathclyde Law Clinic celebrates 15 years in business

The event featured a variety of speakers, including law clinic director Kate Laverty; president of the Employment Tribunal (Scotland), Shona Simon; president of the Law Society of Scotland, Alison Atack; dean of the Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences at Strathclyde University, Professor Douglas Brodie; and trainee solicitor and law clinic alumnus, Andrew Burns.

Speeches were followed by a brief opportunity for questions, before a drinks reception. During the reception interactive stalls displaying the work carried out by the clinic were available.

These stalls were operated by student volunteers involved within various law clinic collaborations and projects, including the Scottish Women’s Rights Centre (SWRC); the immigration unit; online advice project; initial advice centre; public legal education projects.

Co-student director of the law clinic, James Anderson, said: “The University of Strathclyde Law Clinic strives to increase access to justice in Scotland by providing pro bono legal services to those who are unable to access legal advice elsewhere.

“We are delighted to celebrate a successful 15 years of helping to meet these unmet legal needs, and we look forward with enthusiasm, to the next 15 years.”

Ms Laverty added: “We were delighted to be celebrating 15 years of the Law Clinic during which time we have helped almost 4,000 people. Our volunteer law students, past and present, should be proud of what they have achieved in that time.

“Their dedication, commitment and enthusiasm is inspiring. We hope to continue trying to improve access to justice in our Glasgow community and beyond for the foreseeable future.”