News: Dean stands down

Posted: November 6, 2007

Roy Martin QC is retiring as Dean of the Faculty of Advocates after serving as leader of the Bar for three years.

Mr Martin, who was Vice-Dean of Faculty for three years before his election as Dean in November 2004, will remain as a member of Faculty and continue in private practice.
 
Mr Martin said: "I can think of no greater honour and privilege than to serve as Dean of Faculty.

"The Faculty's role in providing access to justice through independent and skilled legal advice and advocacy with no concern for self interest or outside pressures is as important now as it has ever been.

"Like many professions, the Faculty is under intense scrutiny and advocates must always be prepared to explain and justify what they do. I have been impressed by the willingness demonstrated by the Faculty and by individual members to adapt and change to meet the needs of the 21st century."

The son of a solicitor, Mr Martin, 57, attended Paisley Grammar School and graduated in law from Glasgow University. He became an advocate in 1976 and a Queen's Counsel in 1988. He also practises at the English Bar and is a member of the Judicial Appointments Board for Scotland.

The Dean of Faculty is elected by members of the Bar and a timetable for the election of the new Dean will now be organised.