Faculty welcomes former naval officer

 

The Scottish Bar has added a Chartered Engineer to its ranks following the admission to Faculty of former naval officer, Tim Haddow.

After growing up in Edinburgh, Mr Haddow joined the Royal Navy in 1992 and went on to enjoy an 18-year career which included roles as Principal Warfare Officer (Communications) in HMS Ark Royal, the then fleet flagship, and Weapons Engineer Officer in the frigate HMS Montrose.

On leaving the Royal Navy, he returned to Edinburgh University – where he had graduated previously in electronics and electrical engineering – and obtained a Bachelor of Laws degree and the Diploma in Professional Legal Practice. He completed a traineeship with Anderson Strathern LLP before starting devilling in 2015.

Mr Haddow is a former member of the Children’s Panel and a campaigner for fairer access to the legal profession.

At the admission ceremony, Gordon Jackson, QC, Dean of Faculty, told Mr Haddow: “Some of us have only been lawyers but you have had another career…Bringing that variety of background experience will, I am sure, be of great value.”

He added: “We (the Faculty) continue to have a fundamental responsibility to the administration of justice and to maintaining the rule of law which is essential for any secure and successful society. And in that context, I believe that an independent Bar with the highest standards has a vital part to play, and as long as we attract men and women with commitment and talent as we have today in yourself, we can approach the future challenges with confidence.”

Mr Haddow made the declaration of allegiance before Lord Glennie who, on behalf of the Supreme Courts, admitted him to the public office of advocate.

Lord Glennie stated: “The office of advocate is one of the cornerstones of our legal system. The life of an advocate can be hard, but please remember that the life of an advocate is meant to be fun as well. It is challenging, stimulating and gives you access to good company and society, so enjoy it.“