Massive response to Society survey
22 Jun 06
Diversity answers give "real insight" into makeup of the profession
More than 3,000 lawyers have taken part in a nationwide survey of the demographic makeup of the solicitors' profession in Scotland.
The research follows the Law Society of Scotland's highly successful Women in the Legal Profession study in 2005, and examines who makes up the profession and any prevailing attitudes.
Neil Stevenson, deputy director of education and training at the Law Society of Scotland and the Society's head of equality and diversity, said: “This is a fantastic result, and a far better response rate than many others carrying out similar research in other fields have been able to achieve.
“We’re delighted that so many solicitors have taken time out to fill in a detailed set of questions, giving us a superb set of evidence to act on in the future. For the first time we will have real insight into those working in the profession.”
The 3,000-plus responses represent about a third of the profession in Scotland. As well as collecting data on race, sex, gender, sexual orientation, disabilities, religion and belief, and age, the profile research examines the socio-economic background of those entering the profession and their parents.
The survey also looks at some of the assumptions held about and within the legal profession, with solicitors asked if they agree or disagree with statements such as "Law is a ‘macho’ profession", "Being openly gay makes it harder to attract clients", and "A person’s race affects their progression".
Mr Stevenson added: “This will allow us to gauge the reactions of the profession. Getting a depth of understanding about the attitudes held, and which groups hold them, through an anonymous questionnaire will allow us to tackle most effectively any real issues identified and the perceptions people may hold about the profession.”
The results will be used for a range of purposes, from the targeting of careers advice and support and examining how well the profession represents the public it works for, to setting challenges for firms and employers to examine issues within their own organisations, and checking that the Society’s work addresses the views of the various groups which make up the profession.
By 2011, the Society has already predicted, it will have more female members than male and the results from this project will help identify other changing demographics and where resources should be invested to promote the continuing growth and development of the profession and meet the needs of clients.
The results of the study will be announced in November this year and will be available publicly through the Society’s website.