Governance framework

The Law Society is governed by a Council elected by its members, which is responsible for setting the strategic direction, overseeing performance, and ensuring compliance with legal and regulatory obligations. The Council operates in accordance with the royal charter and a clearly defined governance framework, which is reviewed periodically to ensure it remains fit for purpose.

A scheme of delegation is in place, clearly defining the roles and responsibilities of the Council, its committees, and the executive team. This ensures that decision-making is efficient, while maintaining appropriate oversight and control.

The Council

Current Council members at the date of this report are identified under Council of the Law Society. In all, 31 members of Council are elected by national elections, and four members by provincial elections. They serve for a two-year term, and may be re-elected indefinitely. Council appoints up to 13 further extraordinary members annually, based on nominations from the Dublin Solicitors’ Bar Association, the Southern Bar Association, and the Law Society of Northern Ireland.

During the reporting period, the Council met regularly to consider strategic priorities, financial performance, risk management, and key operational matters. Attendance levels remained high, reflecting strong engagement and commitment.

Committees

To support its work, the Council has established a number of standing committees and delegates a wide range of responsibilities and statutory functions to these committees. Details of these can be found under Committee Reports. During the reporting period, two additional standing committees were introduced as part of the continued development of the governance framework:

• The Audit and Risk Committee, which oversees financial reporting, internal controls, and risk-management processes, and
• The Remuneration Committee, which oversees remuneration policy and senior appointments.

Each of these committee operates under agreed terms of reference and reports periodically to the Council.

Risk management and internal control

The Law Society maintains a comprehensive risk-management framework designed to identify, assess, and mitigate key risks. A regularly updated risk register is reviewed by both the executive team and the Council, with particular focus on strategic, operational, financial, and reputational risks.

Internal controls are in place to safeguard assets, ensure the accuracy of financial reporting, and support compliance with relevant legislation and policies. The Council receives regular reports on risk and control effectiveness.

Ethical standards and transparency

The Law Society is committed to maintaining exacting standards of ethical conduct and transparency. A code of conduct is in place, setting out expectations relating to integrity, conflicts of interest, and accountability.

The Law Society promotes a culture of openness, supported by appropriate policies.

Member engagement

As a member organisation, engagement with the profession is fundamental. Governance arrangements ensure that members have opportunities to contribute to decision-making, including through general meetings, consultations, and representation structures where applicable.

Compliance

The organisation remains compliant with all relevant legal and regulatory requirements. Policies and procedures are reviewed regularly to reflect changes in legislation and best practice. Where appropriate, external advice and independent assurance are sought to strengthen governance arrangements.