Garry Sturrock

Mr Sturrock is a senior associate and accredited family lawyer at Brodies LLP and is based in Aberdeen. With over 10 years’ experience of both criminal and civil court work, and a former procurator fiscal depute and a lawyer, he has a good understanding of the current issues facing members and their clients.

The other appointees are: Ian Woodward Nutt – vice president; Jenna Redpath – secretary and Caitlin Pirie – treasurer. The committee members are: Sophie Richardson, Sarah Stuart, Paul Barnett, Sian Fish, Lisa Reilly, Iain McGregor and Stuart Beveridge.

Mr Sturrock said: “It’s a privilege to be elected to this important role. The Aberdeen Bar Association has promoted and protected the rights and interests of clients of its members in the North East for over thirty years. I have pledged my commitment to ensuring that we continue to be a strong voice on important issues facing members and their clients.

“In an era of significant reform to how court business will be conducted in the future, it’s important that we contribute to discussion by providing an insight into the experiences of our lawyers and individuals appearing in court. The Aberdeen Bar Association considers that current arrangements for funding of criminal and civil legal aid are affecting clients across Scotland and are impacting on recruitment of young lawyers into court work.

“A recent review by the Law Society of Scotland concluded that the shortage of legal aid firms offering civil legal aid in Scotland means that many individuals, often the poorest and most vulnerable in our society, risk having to represent themselves. We will continue to make representations to the Scottish government on how this situation may be addressed.”

Mr Sturrock takes over the role of president from Aberdeen solicitor-advocate Ian Woodward-Nutt, who will remain a key member of the body.