News In Focus
10 March 2006
Conference aims to communicate for Journal's 50th
More than 400 Scottish solicitors will gather in Edinburgh today (Friday, 10 March), to learn from a panel of experts about how to use the art of communication to work for them.
The Law Society of Scotland’s Annual Conference this year celebrates the 50th anniversary of its members' magazine, The Journal of the Law Society of Scotland. The conference, sponsored by the Royal Bank of Scotland, addresses communication for solicitors on a number of levels and in different arenas - from successful networking and boosting business to communicating effectively in court.
In addition to the latest developments in law, delegates will hear from a panel of experts about how to use communications to work for them, from diffusing conflict, to winning in court, to dealing with complaints and shaping the future of their firm.
President of the Society Caroline Flanagan said: “Communication is one of the main themes of my presidency - not only how solicitors communicate with clients and their colleagues, but how the Society communicates with the profession. There is always something to learn as technology becomes increasingly sophisticated and as people change how they choose to communicate.
“Good communication with clients is key to long-term success whether you work for a global firm, are a sole practitioner or an in-house lawyer. It is the basis for any successful working relationship whether you are dealing with a corporate restructure or defending someone in court.”
The day’s key speaker is Richard Levick, head of Levick Strategic Communications in Washington DC. Mr Levick, a trained lawyer and expert in litigation PR, is now a world-renowned speaker on the power of effective communication specifically aimed at the legal profession.
There will also be speeches from author and broadcaster Austin Lafferty on "How media savvy are you?"; former President of the Society David Preston, of Oban firm Hosack & Sutherland, on the pros and cons of mediation; communicating online, by Paul Motion of Ledingham Chalmers; and advice on effective communication in court from Sheena Wheatley of Changing Perceptions.
In addition there will be a series of “Get Connected” seminars to give the latest legal updates in areas including conveyancing, trusts and executries, commercial leasing, licensing, family and employment law.