Stepping out to raise funds for pro bono legal services

THE Faculty of Advocates and the Law Society of Scotland will again be joint national sponsors of the Legal Walks, organised annually by the Access to Justice Foundation to raise money to fund much-needed pro bono services.

The Scottish Legal Walks have gone from two in 2021 to five in 2024. This is the 11th year of the Edinburgh Legal Walk, and the Foundation hopes to add a sixth walk in Scotland this autumn.

The legal profession has a long history of providing free legal support to those in need. This includes pro bono services advocates provide through the Faculty’s Free Legal Services Unit (FLSU).

Convenor of the FLSU Committee and Keeper of the Advocates Library Neil Mackenzie KC said: “The Access to Justice Foundation does excellent work to support the provision of legal advice to individuals and communities most in need. The Scottish Legal Walks, of which Faculty is pleased to be a national sponsor, visibly promote the Foundation’s work. Also, the serendipitous, memorable conversations during the walks help to make those personal connections that are so important to the administration of justice generally, and to pro bono legal services in particular.”

Susan Murray, President of the Law Society of Scotland said: “There are many people, including some of the most vulnerable in our society, who require expert advice to resolve complex legal issues and so enforce their legal rights, but who do not have the financial means to pay for that advice. Through organising fundraising events and distributing those funds to local legal advice charities, the Access to Justice Foundation Scotland plays an important role in helping such people.

“Once again, the Law Society of Scotland is delighted to support this year’s Legal Walks. While pro bono legal services can never replace a properly funded legal aid system, many Scottish solicitors offer advice and representation at no cost to people who would otherwise not be able to access the legal support they need,” she added.

Lord Tyre, a long-time supporter and lead walker for the Edinburgh Legal Walk, said: “People who are most in need of legal advice to cope with problems in their lives are usually people who have no resources to pay for it.  The Access to Justice Foundation plays a critical role in facilitating the provision of free legal advice and free representation to those who would not otherwise obtain it.  The Scottish Legal Walks are an enjoyable way of drawing attention to the Foundation’s activities and raising money to assist them.  Join one near you this year!’

Rebecca Samaras, Access to Justice Foundation Scotland committee member and Foundation board trustee commented: “By coming together and participating in the Scottish Legal Walks, frontline organisations and the legal community can make a profound impact on ensuring access to justice for all. Every step taken and every pound raised helps to support those in Scotland who need legal advice and assistance the most.”

There are currently five Scottish Legal Walks scheduled for this year:

• Glasgow Legal Walk – Wednesday 25 September
• Falkirk Legal Walk – Sunday 29 September
• Dundee Legal Walk – Tuesday 1 October  
• Edinburgh Legal Walk – Thursday 3 October
• Aberdeen Legal Walk – Wednesday 9 October

The Scottish Legal Walks are open to advocates, lawyers, judges, court and tribunal staff, paralegals, support staff, legal trainees and devils, law students and all their friends, family and dogs! All funds raised in Scotland stay in Scotland and are distributed by the Foundation to legal advice charities. Those who cannot join a walk can sponsor someone who can.

More information on how to register for one of the walks and fundraise can be found here.