The Clerk of the Faculty of Advocates, Barney Ross, recently joined a panel discussion at the University of Edinburgh’s Law School, along with other Faculty members, to encourage individuals from diverse backgrounds to consider a career as an advocate. The panel included advocates Elisabeth Roxburgh, Dominic Scullion, Mary Ellen Stewart, and devil Bilaal Shabbir. The event was part of the university’s Festival of Legal Possibilities, which aims to highlight various career paths for law students and promote diversity and inclusion in the legal sector.
During the discussion, Mr. Ross and Mr. Scullion emphasized that anyone with the necessary ability and motivation could become an advocate. The number of people who can be called to the Bar is unlimited, provided they pass the required exams. The Faculty also offers scholarship programs to remove barriers to membership in the Scottish Bar for those with the skills and motivation to practice as advocates.
Finally, Mr. Shabbir discussed how the pandemic had accelerated the shift towards technology in the legal profession, with many paper-based processes moving online. In summary, the panelists emphasized the importance of hard work, good interpersonal skills, and building professional relationships in the workplace. They encouraged individuals from diverse backgrounds to consider a fulfilling career as an advocate.
