The Law Society has appointed the first Welsh member to one of its major committees, after selecting a Swansea-based law firm’s director to join its Law Management Section Committee.
Barry Davies, 41, director at Douglas Jones Mercer (DJM) solicitors, joins six existing members and five new members consisting of highly-experienced management consultants, partners and directors from the law management sector across the UK.
Members are elected following an interview process and work to provide a direct link between those working within the profession and the Law Society.
The Law Society exists as an independent professional body for solicitors; representing and supporting its members by promoting the highest professional standards and the rule of law. Described by President of the Law Society Andrew Caplen, as ‘jewels in its crown’, the Law Society’s committees provide valuable guidance on policy, practice and procedure in their specialist areas.
Mr Davies began his career with DJM initially in 1990, and re-joined the firm in November 1999 as its finance manager. In 2010, he was one of the first non-lawyers to be appointed a director of a Welsh law firm.
Founded in 1946, Douglas-Jones Mercer has established itself as one of the best-performing law firms in Wales, employing over 50 people at its Mallard Way headquarters in Swansea.
Speaking of his appointment, Mr Davies said:
“I am thrilled to have been selected to the Law Management Section Committee. As a member of its prestigious board, I am both excited and nervous to be joining some of the UK’s most influential law management gurus.
“It is a great opportunity to communicate the opportunities and challenges facing the legal sector in Wales and I hope that I can make a valuable contribution to the committee’s crucial ongoing work.”
Robert Banner, Chair of the Law Management Section, said:
“Barry’s appointment is testament to his commitment to excellence and development within the sector, particularly within Wales. It was for this reason that we were eager to secure his services as a committee member.
“He brings a wealth of invaluable experience to the board and we look forward to officially welcoming him. We have no doubt given his previous achievements that he will a highly effective and valued member of the committee. ”