World lawyers give back to Edinburgh with Water of Leith clean-up

More than 40 lawyers from across the globe traded boardrooms for wellies last week, teaming up with Morton Fraser MacRoberts (MFMac) and the Water of Leith Conservation Trust (WOLCT) for a morning of hands-on volunteering.

Volunteers split into teams to carry out a range of task to look after the Water of Leith walkway, including cutting back overgrown vegetation, sweeping up leaves and litter picking locally to stop rubbish getting into the river.

The clean-up formed part of Interlaw’s Annual Global Meeting in Edinburgh, where senior lawyers from over 80 countries gathered for four days of knowledge-sharing and international collaboration.

This year marks the first time the conference has been hosted in Scotland for almost 40 years. Edinburgh headquartered MFMac – this year’s host – organised the clean-up event as a way to make a positive impact and help protect the natural environment that makes Edinburgh a beautiful and inspiring place to live and work.

Chris Harte, Chief Executive Officer at Morton Fraser MacRoberts: “Interlaw is a powerful network bringing hundreds of delegates to Edinburgh and this clean-up has been a great opportunity to give something back to our host city while they’re visiting.

“The Water of Leith is a landmark that flows through many of Edinburgh’s local communities, so it’s been a privilege to organise a meaningful activity to protect it. We know how packed our colleagues’ schedules are so we’re grateful to everyone who rolled up their sleeves!”

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Johnny Wells, Ranger from the Water of Leith Conservation Trust, said: “The Water of Leith is an amazing green corridor for both people and wildlife in Edinburgh, support like this makes a real difference allowing us to care for it.

“We’re very grateful to MFMac for involving us in their programme and for highlighting the importance of looking after this special place.”

Edinburgh students offered live legal career advice from top law firm during exam results week

With thousands of students across Scotland receiving their exam results next week, MFMac, one of Scotland’s “big four” independent law firms, is launching a new initiative to support young people considering a future in law.

The MFMac Career Helpline, running from 4 – 8th August, will provide live career advice for students during Scotland’s exam results week.

The initiative is designed to break down barriers and offer practical guidance for aspiring lawyers, particularly those without industry connections or mentors, and help parents navigate their children’s career options.

Through the Helpline, students and parents will have the opportunity to speak directly with the firm’s current trainees and members of the People team, gaining insight into legal pathways, university decisions and what a career in law can look like beyond the traditional routes.

Martin Glover, Chief People Officer at MFMac, said: “Getting your exam results can be daunting, particularly for those without access to career advice or legal role models.

“Through this Helpline, we want to give students and parents a clear starting point: someone to speak to, questions answered and honest advice about what’s possible. It reflects our broader mission to make legal careers more accessible, inclusive and achievable for all.”

Jamie Stewart, a Senior Solicitor in MFMac’s Commercial team, said: “When I got my exam results, I felt completely unsure about what to do next or how to progress into my career.

“I had no close contacts in law, and I didn’t know who to ask for advice. This Helpline offers students something I didn’t have – a chance to speak to someone who understands your concerns.

“I’m proud to be part of something that helps you see there’s always a way forward. Remember, your results don’t define your future – there’s always a path ahead.”

Students and parents can call The MFMac Career Helpline on 0131 247 1060. The line is open between 9am – 7pm Monday 4th – 8th August.