Many readers will have fond memories of coming to Chancery Lane for an admission ceremony, flanked by proud relatives and posing awkwardly for pictures under the famous wrought iron arch.
But for Simon Osborne, who qualified in 1973, there were no such memories to cherish – that is, until he finally ‘graduated’ last week.
Now aged 74, Osborne joined 56 new entrants to the profession in donning the gown and mortar board to receive his certificate from Society president I. Stephanie Boyce.
Osborne explained that when he joined the roll of solicitors he had a young family to look after and ‘probably couldn’t afford’ the trip into central London. But after a stellar career, including acting as general counsel for Railtrack and latterly serving the Chartered Governance Institute, he came to appreciate the importance of the ceremony and, approaching his 50th year on the roll, decided it was now or never.
He said he loved the experience, even if he was a little older than fellow graduates, adding: ‘Two things struck me: the importance which newly qualified solicitors attach to their achievement and the devotion and support of their families and friends in the room.’
There may well be others on the roll for decades who have never actually been formally admitted thus. The Society says its door is always open.
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