Dear members,

Welcome to Hilary term at the Oxford Law Society.

For a number of years, the Law Society has offered our members a variety of events, catering for every taste. This term is no different. From informative presentations, through fascinating and fresh speaker events, to exciting socials (including a sumptuous ball), there is something to tempt every member, whether embattled finalist or trouble-free first year.

At a time when many of our members are considering their career options, our presentation series offers advice and assistance, with weekly presentations by a number of city law firms, such as Interview Tips and a Competition Workshop. These presentations also allow our members to talk to lawyers after the presentations on a more informal basis, when they can answer all your law-based questions.

Furthermore, our speaker series, which includes Reprieve, Lord Pannick QC and Howard Godfrey QC will offer insights into other areas of law, and its application. Reprieve, an anti-death penalty human-rights charity, has recently received a lot of coverage due to its efforts against injustice at Guantanamo Bay. Meanwhile, in Lord  Pannick QC and Howard Godfrey QC, we have two leading barristers in their fields, the former in Public Law and Human Rights, the latter in Criminal Law and Fraud.

Remember to look out in seventh week for Verdict, the Oxford Law Society magazine that contains a variety of excellent articles. Furthermore, the society will be holding ‘Introduction to Mooting’ events each term,followed by a Novice Speedmoot and the prestigious Crown Office mooting competition is held termly by the society.

As every member knows, however, another important aspect of the Law Society is our commitment tobringing you some of the best socials Oxford can boast. To banish the post-vac malaise, first week sees the return of Presidential Drinks, at the new location of the Exam Schools. This is followed by Wine Tasting in second week, and the usual favourites, such as Cocktail Night, Champagne and Chocolates, Clubnight and Afternoon Tea at the Randolph. Finally, in eighth week, we are thrilled to announce that the termly ball will take place at Warwick Castle.

I hope that this has you all as excited as I am about the coming term. I would like to thank each and every one of you for supporting the society with your presence and your passion. This society would be nothing without its members and I sincerely hope and believe that this term will exceed all your expectations.

I look forward to seeing you all at our events this term.

Yours,

Alexei Franks (President)