Ogier's Henry Simpson elected president of Guernsey International Legal Association

Associate Henry Simpson has been elected the new president for the Guernsey International Legal Association (GILA) by its members.

The GILA is a forum for lawyers and law students in Guernsey, offering opportunities to learn, network, and exchange ideas in a relaxed environment that brings together members from all corners of the profession. Working alongside Henry are committee members partner Sandie Lyne and associate Charlotte Ward.

Henry said: "I am honoured to be elected president by my fellow members. The GILA does more than create a space for lawyers and law students to connect and develop. It inspires and offers opportunities to the next generation of lawyers. Our schools engagement programme and bursary scheme provide support that can make a valuable difference and these will both continue to be a key focus for the GILA in the coming years."

The schools engagement programme connects lawyers with schools and arranges talks. During these school events, the speakers discuss their careers and experiences, demystifying their roles and answering student's questions.

"It has been fantastic to see Henry take the reigns as president," said Sandie, who has also previously served as president. "Ogier, as a firm, takes pride in investing in skills, training and helping our people to achieve everything that they can. Henry not only continues to progress within his own career, but also acts as a champion to inspire students and give those that might struggle the chance to seize the same opportunities."

The bursary award includes £1,000 as well as complimentary membership to the GILA and career mentoring for the relevant year. It is available to Guernsey residents studying the LLB, GDL, LPC, or BPTC and who intend to return to the island to practice law. Residents who are already working towards a legal qualification part-time, including CILEx, are also invited to apply. Applications for 2022/2023 are now open.

For more information on how to apply for the bursary, visit www.gila.gg/bursary