In Memoriam, Jane Rattray

IT WAS with deep sadness that the Faculty of Advocates learnt this week of the untimely passing of Jane Rattray.

“Jane called to the bar in 2015, following many years as a solicitor, and specialised in family law. In recent years her professional life had been focused on her role as counsel to the Scottish Child Abuse Inquiry. She will be sorely missed,” said Dean of Faculty Roddy Dunlop KC.

Before calling to the Bar in 2015 she practised as a litigation solicitor in Edinburgh for more than 20 years. As a solicitor, she gained extensive experience in conducting proofs, debates, and appeals to the Sheriff Principal. 

While she had broad-based experience in both civil and criminal litigation, she specialised in all aspects of family and child law. She had a particular interest in European Union law and completed a Master of Laws in European Law at the University of Edinburgh in 2014.

“She was a highly respected, and much valued, member of the Inquiry’s team of counsel. Prior to her untimely passing, she made a significant contribution to the difficult and sensitive work of the Inquiry,” said James Peoples KC. “Jane will be sorely missed by her colleagues and friends within the Inquiry and at Faculty. Our thoughts are with Jane’s family and in particular her daughter, Amrit.” 

"Having known Jane from her time as a solicitor, it was a real privilege to be her devilmaster and later work with her at the Child Abuse Inquiry. It is hard to believe that she has been taken from us so soon. Her wise counsel and calm and caring nature will be sorely missed," said Ruth Innes KC. 

“Jane came to me for quite a short period towards the end of her devilling year to get some experience of public law.  Nevertheless, it was long enough for me to form a very positive impression,” said Douglas Ross KC. “She had, I believe, spent quite a while as a solicitor before coming to the Bar and was a very capable devil: conscientious, hard-working and good-natured.  Our paths diverged after she called, since we worked in different areas, but I liked her very much and am extremely sorry to hear of her passing,” he added. 

Westwater Advocates Stable Director Desmond Cheyne said he was shocked and saddened by the news of her passing and offered his condolences on behalf of all her colleagues and friends at Westwater Advocates. 

“Not long after calling Jane went into the Child Abuse Inquiry full time so sadly we did not see her very often but she was committed, hardworking and a delight to deal with. It was my pleasure and privilege to be her Clerk,” said Advocates Clerk Sheila Westwater.

 Her funeral will be at 12 noon on Thursday 16 May at Binning Memorial Wood, East Fenton Farm, North Berwick. There will then be a celebration of life reception at 2pm in the Caledonian Hall in the Botanics.