With a sold-out crowd of passionate legal professionals, the conference was nothing short of a monumental occasion. The Criminal Law Solicitors Association brought together a community of committed solicitors to share insights, celebrate achievements, and delve into the complex tapestry of criminal law. Those who missed this extraordinary gathering have undoubtedly missed an opportunity to connect with thought leaders and champions of justice in a city with a deep-rooted history in law and order.
A Warm Welcome from Daniel Bonich and Future Law Society President, Richard Atkinson
From the moment the first speaker took the stage, it was clear that attendees were in for an extraordinary experience. The conference’s agenda was packed with some of the most brilliant minds in criminal law, each one delivering insights that left the audience buzzing with excitement. These luminaries tackled a broad spectrum of topics, providing a wealth of knowledge that attendees eagerly absorbed.
Daniel Bonich, Chair of the CLSA, opened the ceremonies with an inspired speech, even the biggest of fab-four fans would have lots count of the number of Beatles references and lyrics that were peppered throughout his speech! Setting the scene for the day ahead, Daniel concluded his speech with “To do nothing about the crisis in criminal legal aid is a choice. When access to justice is denied, it strikes at the heart of our society. The time to act is now. We cannot just ’let it be’.”
We were lucky enough to secure Richard Atkinson, who next week becomes President of the Law Society, to attend the conference. Richard was delighted to address a room packed full of criminal law practitioners, including several budding future lawyers. Richard’s speech referred to the numerous serious challenges that the profession are facing and he made his stance on these very clear. He urges government for a clear timetable for dealing with issues, as “the goodwill of solicitors has papered over the cracks in the system for long enough.” The CLSA was pleased to award Richard Atkinson with honorary membership of the CLSA.
A Stellar Line-Up of Speakers and Topics That Set the Stage
Sarah Davies, Head of Communications and Engagement at HMCTS bravely took to the stage to address communication with the courts. Sarah navigated some punchy questions from delegates who have experienced frustrating communication issues with their local courts. Sarah used the Slido app to gather feedback and data that she can take back to her offices and hopefully come back with some improved processes that will delight many criminal solicitors.
Following a morning break, the CLSA Annual Conference reached an emotional crescendo when two ex-post office mistresses, who had been unjustly imprisoned, courageously shared their harrowing experiences. Their tales of unwavering resilience and indomitable spirit resonated deeply with everyone present. As their voices quivered with emotion, the room collectively held its breath, eyes glistening with tears. The raw, unfiltered humanity of their stories was a stark reminder of the vital importance of justice and the relentless fight against wrongful convictions. The audience, swept up in the moment, rose to their feet in an overwhelming standing ovation, creating a powerful and unforgettable atmosphere.
The sheer power of this moment not only highlighted the immense responsibility that criminal law solicitors bear but also underscored the profound impact they can have on lives. Both Seema Misra and Janet Skinner praised their Barrister, Flora Page, who herself was overcome with emotion. Flora and her legal team restored their faith in the system that had caused so much devastation.
Up next was Terry Wilcox. Continuing on the developing theme of miscarriages of justice, Terry’s talk covering the Hillsborough tragedy was poignant given the conference location. The city of Liverpool, bearing the indelible scars of the Hillsborough disaster, provided an emotionally charged backdrop for an in-depth exploration of this tragic event. As delegates were guided through the legal and emotional fallout of the disaster, which claimed the lives of 96 innocent football fans, the atmosphere was one of solemn reflection and unwavering resolve. Terry also gave insight into the Manchester Arena bombing, and the shocking account of how lives could have been saved.
A conference first – Criminal Lawyer, Writer and Comedian, Abigail Rolling took to the stage to lighten the mood before lunch after hearing such harrowing accounts of injustice. Abigail delivered a slick and hilarious 30-minute routine drawing on her own personal experience of dealing with clients, courts and police. The room shifted from tears of sorrow to tears of laughter as Abigails quick wit and sharp observations on the peculiarities of legal life had the audience in stitches. Abigail’s performance not only entertained but also reminded everyone of the importance of finding humour even in the most challenging professions.
Challenging the Legal Aid Contract
Daniel Bonich (CLSA Chair), Katy Hanson (CLSA Vice Chair) and Richard Atkinson (Vice Chair of the Law Society) formed a panel to discuss the new Legal Aid Contract. As expected, the room was full of questions and concerns. The conference created a safe, informed space for delegates to share their key issues and gain a sense of ‘togetherness’ as firms seriously consider whether to tender.
A copy of the presentation slides on this session can be downloaded here.
Afternoon Skill-Building Sessions to Empower Delegates
The afternoon sessions were a masterclass in professional development, infusing the delegates with a potent blend of practical skills and renewed vigour.
Training sessions ranged from coping strategies for lawyers dealing with the pressures of criminal law, to marketing and professional profile raising, through to an insightful talk about FASD and criminal justice.
Annmarie Carvalho, ‘The Lawyers’ Therapist’, gave a talk that was ‘not a wellbeing talk’ but instead, some education around neuroscience and coping strategies for lawyers who are working in very emotionally-charged and stressful areas of law.
Hannah Perryman, a marketing specialist for the legal sector, taught the delegates about personal branding and the impact it can have on bringing in new work, referrals and opening doors for career development. She gave delegates some insight into online and offline strategies for raising their profiles as criminal lawyers.
Tania Goddard, a qualified solicitor and PhD student at Salford University reached out to the lawyers in the room to gauge their knowledge of FASD and the impact it can have on access to justice. Her educational talk demonstrated how lawyers can identify if their clients have FASD as it can present in many different ways. Tania’s research also showed that the UK are lagging far behind other western countries with their understanding of FASD.
Networking Opportunities that Fostered Connections and Collaboration
The conference buzzed with excitement as delegates seized every opportunity to connect and collaborate. Coffee breaks turned into impromptu brainstorming sessions and lunch tables buzzed with the exchange of ideas. With a lack of events aimed at the criminal law sector, along with the lack of time for socialising with fellow legal professionals, the delegates embraced the opportunity to make new connections and catch up with other members.
A handful of industry experts formed an exhibition area where delegates could explore during breaks, chat with suppliers and enter some fun competitions too.
Looking Ahead to the Future
As the curtains fell on this momentous day, an undeniable sense of momentum and forward-thinking permeated the air. The CLSA Annual Conference in Liverpool proved to be a great success and the collective energy in the room ensured that everyone left feeling inspired and enriched to continue with their important roles in criminal justice.
Looking ahead, the path is still going to be challenging. However, with Richard Atkinson taking the podium at the Law Society, we hope that change will be on the horizon and that criminal law will get the attention it so desperate needs and reach the top of the agenda.
We are already looking forward to next year’s conference and aim to have another ‘sell-out’ event bursting with inspiring speakers and hot topics. Watch this space as we will share the date of our 2025 conference with you in the coming months.
