Since my last blog, the country has had a change of government. Whatever your politics, a change of government after 14 years feels quite momentous, or at least that it could be. As a legal aid lawyer and law firm owner, I have to remain ever optimistic that a government one day might look at the sustainability of our legal aid system, although perhaps that is naïve… Nevertheless, I was lucky enough to be shortlisted for a Legal Aid Lawyers Award this year and attended the ceremony on 5 July 2024. I always find the evening a complete inspiration, hearing about all the times that lawyers have gone above and beyond for their clients, often in the face of battling a system which feels like it is set up to challenge those that work within it. However, I always leave the evening feeling warm inside and proud to work within a community of such committed, passionate and bright individuals, and knowing that lawyers really can be a force for good.
And so, the summer months are upon us - although as I write this I am looking out the window to torrential rain and thinking "what summer?!". Luckily, the rain stayed away for the Legal Walk in June where I joined over 200 walkers took to the streets of Nottingham, raising £2,068.86 for the Access to Justice Fund.
Pictured left to right: Chief Crown Prosecutor Janine McKinney, HHJ Shant KC, Nottinghamshire Law Society President Lauren Crow, HHJ Auty KC, High Sheriff of Nottinghamshire Nick Rubins, Under Sheriff of Nottinghamshire Deborah Hutchinson & HHJ Coupland.
And we have exciting summer of sport ahead. As I write this, I understand the men's England Euros team are just about clinging on (I do sometimes wish that I could develop a greater investment in football...), but I am certainly looking forward to the Paris Olympics. Best of luck also to our very own NLS cricket team! A first close game against the NHS medics unfortunately resulted in defeat but it is all to play for in the remaining matches against the Barristers on 14 August 2024 and Derby and District Law Society on 29 August 2024. If nothing else though our team are looking dapper in their brand-new kit!
I am also really looking forward to marching with colleagues at Nottingham PRIDE on 27 July 2024 which provides an opportunity to celebrate and stand with the LGBTQ+ community. Many thanks to Browne Jacobson who are putting on breakfast for us and to Gateley Legal, KCH Garden Square and Shoosmiths LLP for sponsoring the complimentary t-shirts and not forgetting Ropewalk Chambers and Eversheds Sutherland for sponsoring the drinks post the event. I am so proud that NLS has developed an established presence at PRIDE, which really is an event for everyone - a real demonstration of friendship, fun and allyship.
I will also be at the Newark networking lunch on 25 July 2024 where I look forward to meeting those attending and will be attending the first of the Equality and Diversity’s masterclass series which begins with a session on how to support senior women in law.
Otherwise, I hope you all manage to take some time for yourselves and your families over the summer months – after all we all know the value in taking break. The next bulletin will come in September just in time for a full programme of NLS activities during the Autumn.
Best wishes,
Lauren Crow
President 2024-2025