New Society President takes up office

Murray Beith Murray partner Ruthven Gemmell takes over from Caroline Flanagan

News, 26 May 2006

The Law Society of Scotland’s new President takes up office today - Friday, 26 May.

Solicitor Ruthven Gemmell replaces Caroline Flanagan. Mr Gemmell is a partner at private client firm Murray Beith Murray in Edinburgh, and has been on the Society’s Council for 14 years. During that time he has contributed to the education and training, investor protection and compensation fund committees and recently served as treasurer. He has been vice president for the past year.

Commenting on his new post, Mr Gemmell said: “I’m honoured to have been elected to represent the profession and its clients. My term as President will be very challenging and I am looking forward to it immensely.

“The year is likely to see the biggest change to the structure of the profession in the Society’s history. Today the Society will decide policy on both the Legal Profession Bill and solemn criminal legal aid.

“Our focus is on communication, the independence of the profession and access to justice. With these in mind we continue the tradition of providing objective advice on all legal reforms. This ultimately benefits the Scottish public with the introduction of good, practical law.”

The President, vice president and past president provide continuity over a three-year strategic programme for the Society. John Mackinnon, a partner with Brown & McRae of Fraserburgh, has been elected as vice president.