Arrivals at Law Society House

Module 3: Defending the Rule of Law and Judicial Independence in a Challenging Global       Environment

Against a backdrop of rising authoritarianism and challenges to democratic institutions, this panel examines current threats to the rule of law and judicial independence around the world. Speakers will discuss concerning developments including political interference in civil institutions such as universities, threats to lawyers and law firms, legislative attempts to curtail court authority, targeted harassment of judges, and the erosion of legal protections for vulnerable populations.

The discussion will highlight specific case studies from the United States and around the world, offering comparative insights into both shared challenges and region-specific concerns.

The panel will also explore the vital role law associations and individual lawyers play in defending democratic principles. Speakers will share effective strategies being employed globally, including public education initiatives, strategic litigation, international solidarity movements, and collaborative efforts with civil society organizations.

This forward-looking discussion aims to provide attendees with practical approaches for strengthening the legal profession's capacity to serve as guardians of constitutional democracy during periods of democratic backsliding. Audience members will gain valuable perspectives on how their organizations can effectively respond to these challenges within their own jurisdictions.

Moderator: Robert Spagnoletti, CEO, The District of Columbia Bar

Panelists:

Ian P. McDougall, President, LexisNexis Rule of Law Foundation

David Lavery, CEO, Law Society of Northern Ireland

Mary Smith, Immediate Past-President, American Bar Association

Nellie Tjahikika, Director, Law Society of Namibia

10:15 - 10:30

Break

Continuation - Module 3

11:15 - 13:00

Module 4: Regulating legal practice in a world of porous borders

As economies become more global, the demand for international and cross-border legal services has grown significantly. These services are being delivered in a variety of ways across jurisdictions, from temporary and occasional provision to a more permanent presence.

In parallel, the evolution of virtual law firms and lawyers represents a major shift in the legal landscape, driven by technological advancements and changing professional priorities. This redefining of the traditional practice of law raises complex challenges and issues for regulators and legal associations across the world.

In this session, the panel will explore:

• The case for dynamic alignment between bordering jurisdictions, to keep pace with evolving market and regulatory developments.

• Examples of how Law Societies have responded to these challenges and introduced initiatives to facilitate cross-border and virtual         working.

• How legal regulation and the profession can be shaped by these important economic, technological and social relationships.

Moderator:

David A Lavery, CEO, Law Society of Northern Ireland

Panelists:

David Mulholland, CEO, Bar of Northern Ireland

Ian Jeffery, CEO, Law Society of England and Wales

Shane Dwyer, Regulatory Legal Services, Law Society of Ireland

Return to Hilton for Luggage Pick-up & Lunch

Return to the Hilton Hotel to pick up luggage before departing for Dublin.

A convenient bagged lunch will also be available at the Hilton for everyone.

Transportation to Dublin

Bus will depart from the Hilton Hotel at 13:30 sharp for part two of our conference in Dublin, Ireland. This journey, will include a narrated tour as we leave Belfast, with a guide remaining on board to highlight points of interest. A stop or break along the route will be included.

16:30

Check-in at Hyatt Centric Dublin

Free Time

Bus Departure to Guinness Storehouse

The first bus to the Guinness Storehouse will depart from the Hyatt at 18:00, for those wanting an early pint and peek at the stunning 360-degree view  the Guinness Gravity Bar located at the top of the Storehouse.

A second bus will depart at 18:45 in time to head directly to the reception and dinner.

1837 Bar & Brasserie Reception & Dinner

Enjoy a reception and dinner at the 1837 Bar & Brasserie within the Guinness Storehouse. This venue, named after the year Guinness and oysters were declared a perfect match, offers a unique experience including the "Stoutie" beer/image machine and a menu of Irish cuisine with Guinness pairings

Return Bus to The Hyatt

Following the evening's activities, a bus will provide convenient transportation directly back to The Hyatt Centric The Liberties Dublin.