An Associate Solicitor from national law firm Weightmans has been appointed President of Leeds Law Society. Matthew Jones is the first openly LGBTQ+ President in the Law Society’s 150 year history, and takes over from Catherine Woodward from the 1 June 2022.
During his presidency, Matthew will focus on diversity and inclusion within the Leeds legal community, working with the Vice Presidents Shanika Varga from Stowe Family Law and Nigel Brook from Tyr Law on various initiatives and representing over 1000 members both within Leeds and on a national platform.
At Weightmans, Matthew is a real estate specialist, with a particular expertise in the area of leaseholder enfranchisement. Matthew is a Diversity and Inclusion Champion for the firm and works with colleagues on a number of initiatives designed to break down barriers in the workplace. He is based in the firm’s new premises on Whitehall Road, in the heart of Leeds’ commercial district.
Matt said:
“I am honoured to take on the role of President of the Leeds Law Society.
“The legal sector has a duty to be inclusive and diverse. Those who work in this wonderful profession should be able to be their true selves, and those wishing to enter the legal sector should not be dissuaded from doing so due to any preconceptions about accessibility.
“This year, I intend to build on the incredible work we have already carried out and help make the legal industry in Leeds the most diverse and accepting it can possibly be. In addition to the pursuit of inclusion we will continue to focus on the promotion of Leeds as a centre for legal excellence, at the forefront of legal technology with a thriving community.
“I would like to thank Catherine Woodward for her work over the last 12 months and also my firm, Weightmans, for their support.
“There are exciting plans in the pipeline and I hope to see and welcome as many people as possible to our events over the next 12 months.”
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