All you ever wanted to know about the SYLA but were afraid to ask

Q: Who are the SYLA?
A:The SYLA is a non profit-making organisation that exists to represent, educate and entertain young Scottish lawyers and has been doing so since 1974. It's also a member of the European Young Bar Association (EYBA). "Young lawyers" means LLB students, Diploma students, trainees and qualified lawyers up to 10 years qualified.

Q: How do I become a member of the SYLA?
A:Please see the Membership section of this site for information about how to join the SYLA.

Q: What is the SYLA's main purpose?
A:We are here to represent, educate and entertain Scottish young lawyers. This breaks down into the following aims, which are stated in the Constitution of the SYLA:

• to organise conferences, seminars and study groups;
• to represent the interests of members in all matters relating to the teaching and practice of law;
• to represent the views of members;
• to establish and maintain relations with other associations/ bodies of young lawyers anywhere in the world;
• to publish or co-operate in the publishing of books, articles, papers, pamphlets and styles relating to the substance and practice of the law of Scotland; and
• to provide opportunities for social contact between young lawyers both in Scotland and elsewhere.

Q: Is the SYLA part of the Law Society of Scotland?
A: NO! Although we work with the Law Society where this benefits young lawyers we’re independent of it so that we can represent your views effectively. This means that your concerns can be put forward collectively and on a no-names basis. It is important, therefore, that you let us know when you have any concerns so that we can take them forward on your behalf.

Q: What have the SYLA achieved in its representing role?
A:Our achievements include:

• spreading the word to encourage as many young lawyers as possible to complete the Law Society's Education and Training Consultation, including organising an event for this purpose. Also inputting into this Consultation;
• improved links with other organisations such as the Education and Training Department of the Law Society of Scotland and the In-house Lawyers Group;
• representation which led to an increase in trainee salary recommended rates;
• a consultation on information required by trainees about the PCC;

See the Issues sections of this site for more detail about our representing work.

Q: What events does the SYLA hold?
A:We have an extensive annual calendar of social and educational events - see our Events diary for the latest information.

Q: How can I get in touch with SYLA?
A:Simply Contact Us or become a member to get our regular e-newsletters.

We look forward to hearing from you or seeing you at one of our events!