Dear Members

Thank you to everyone who has taken the time to be here today.

I would like to begin by showing my appreciation to the Committee, all of whom have been
a great support to me during my Presidency. I am incredibly grateful to you all as I know
how hard it is to carve out spare time in your working day. I also appreciate that some of
you are long standing members and even returning members. It really is wonderful that
you value the importance of the Law Society and what it stands for and continue to show
your support. It has also been lovely to welcome new Committee members, who have
joined with enthusiasm and innovative ideas.

I would also like to take this opportunity to reflect on events during the last year.
The Committee was incredibly proud to welcome the President of the Law Society, Lubna
Shuja on the 8th September 2023, when she gave an inspiring and engaging talk about her
journey through law. The President was very kind in taking the time to talk to everyone at
the event and clearly enjoyed hearing from all professionals about their experiences and
concerns in their relevant area of practice. Thank you to Laura Colville, who organised
the event. It really was a great success and is certainly an event that I would like to see
re-scheduled in the future.

The Law Society of England and Wales welcomed a new President, Nick Emmerson, in
October 2023. Over the last year, I have had the opportunity to learn more about the Law
Society’s objectives to promote the value of the profession, protect the justice system
and support members of the Law Society. The three mains themes are as follows:-

1. Our profession as an economic powerhouse. Solicitors help power the UK
   economy by underpinning our international and domestic trade and being a core
   component of our international reputation as a great place to do business.
2. The value our profession brings locally. Solicitor firms provide local expertise and
   high-quality jobs and prospects for young people, in every town and city across
   England and Wales.
3. The value our profession provides individuals within wider society. We uphold the
   laws that bind society together and ensure that justice is done, helping everyone
   in society navigate through some of the most complex and difficult times in their
   lives. We serve all corners of society and contribute each day to upholding the rule
   of law and providing on the ground access to justice.

Another area which I am particularly passionate about is the review of civil legal aid. As I
am sure many of you will know, the Law Society undertook a review early this year. The
analysis suggests that legal aid work could drop by 1/3 in 2025, leaving many without
access to justice in desperate situations. It is sincerely hoped that the Review will enable
the Government to develop options for sharing a more effective, efficient and sustainable
system for legal aid providers and the people who rely on legal aid.

Moving on to lighter note. There has been a particular focus on social events this year,
with the Quiz at the Chichester Rugby Club in October and the Annual Dinner at the
Chichester Yacht Club in November. There was a wonderful atmosphere at both events
and everyone thoroughly enjoyed themselves. The Committee was particularly proud of
the monies raised for two incredible local charities. We raised £1100 for Chestnut Tree
House and £1504 for St Wilfrid’s Hospice.

In terms of training, members have attended Conveyancing courses with the reputable
Richard Snape, which were very informative for all attendees.

In terms of forthcoming training plans, we have a arranged a Compliance seminar in
September with Emma Mason and have scheduled plans for Autism training and an
Inheritance Act seminar.

The Committee has seen an increase in membership over the last year, which is very
positive. However, we are currently looking for new members and welcome new
Committee members. Please do come and speak to us this evening if you are interested
in joining. We also encourage you to put forward your recommendations as to how the
Society can improve and please do tell us what you expect to receive from your
membership.

I would like to take this opportunity to welcome all new members and Iook forward to
meeting with you at future events.

I would also like to thank my Vice President, Sam Carter for his amazing support during
the last year and wish him every success in his new role as President.

Finally, thank you to our sponsors, Close Brothers Asset Management and Destin 4
Chartered Surveyors, who has supported us this evening. I hope you all enjoy a fabulous
evening.

Michelle Lewis
President, Chichester and District Law Society