Edinburgh welcomes delegates to major family law event

Distinguished figures in the field of family law will converge on Edinburgh from throughout the United Kingdom and Ireland for a major conference.

The Four Jurisdictions Family Law Conference this weekend (30 January to 1 February) will examine a host of issues, including child protection, legal aid, enforcing divorce judgments and the crossing of borders with children.

It is the 20th anniversary of the conference and one of the prime discussions is entitled "20:20 Vision", asking what has changed in the last 20 years and what can be expected in the next 20 years.

The event is being held in Edinburgh for the fourth time and proceedings at the National Museum of Scotland on Saturday will be opened by Lord Brailsford, Scotland's family law judge.

The "home" team of speakers includes Professor Peter McEleavy of Dundee University, Kate Dowdalls, QC, as well as advocates, Lynda Brabender and Des Cheyne.

On Friday afternoon, delegates can enjoy a tour of Parliament House, taking in the courts and the Advocates Library.

Janys Scott, QC, Chair of the Advocates' Family Law Association, said: "This is a sparkling opportunity to look at cross-border issues, compare notes and make or renew friendships with like-minded family lawyers in other jurisdictions."

Organisation of the conference has been a collaborative venture between Scottish solicitors and advocates, in combination with colleagues in Belfast, Dublin and Liverpool.

One or two places may still be available. Email shona.smith@balfour-manson.co.uk