Devon & Somerset Law Society welcomes the president’s call for local law societies to reassess their role. DASLS has just launched its business plan for the next three years. Part of our strategy is to put junior and in-house lawyers at the centre of the plan. We are also committed to stronger engagement with our non-solicitor affiliate members and better use of electronic and social media.

The long-term effectiveness of local societies requires innovation. Our ability to engage beyond the traditional local law society fold is crucial to success. Councils and committees need to consider this in everything they do. Those societies with staff need to ensure that they have a clear direction and mandate, coupled with the skills and tools to give the support we need.

The membership base for local societies is changing and this threatens our long-term sustainability. We must be bold. DASLS is taking steps to reach well beyond its traditional boundaries - and welcomes any debate or collaboration.

David Bowen, president, Devon & Somerset Law Society, Exeter