News In Focus

Pinsent Masons supports student scholarship

12 October 2012

A new academic scholarship has been set up by law firm Pinsent Masons, along with distillers William Grant & Sons, in honour of a pioneering woman lawyer.

The Janet Sheed Roberts Legal Scholarship has been developed in recognition of the contribution which Ms Roberts, granddaughter of spirits entrepreneur William Grant, made as one of the first female lawyers to practise in Scotland.

Ms Roberts, who died earlier this year aged 110, formerly practised with McGrigor Donald, which as McGrigors merged with Pinsent Masons earlier this year. While at the firm she met her future husband Eric Roberts.

The scholarship, which is open to first year students of Edinburgh, Glasgow, Aberdeen or Strathclyde Universities, will provide £4,000 per academic year for five years for a student from Scotland who can demonstrate a need for financial support.

The successful applicant will also be offered a holiday placement at both William Grant & Sons and Pinsent Masons, before being given the chance to apply for a training contract with either organisation. Applications are invited by 30 November 2012.

Ian Lyall, partner at Pinsent Masons, said: "Ms. Roberts was a remarkable woman and a pioneer, having entered the legal profession at a time when it was dominated by men. She has played a prominent role both in the history of the firm and the legal profession in Scotland, and for that reason it seemed fitting that we work with William Grant & Sons to honour her in this way."

Greg Bargeton, head of legal for William Grant & Sons, added: "We are keen to find tomorrow's pioneers and trailblazers who can show the same spirit and determination as befits Janet's legacy. This scholarship is really about finding an exceptional talent and giving him or her the opportunity to flourish irrespective of economic background."