The organization elected its first Black female president, Angela Campbell, in 2005
Jason Lartey, founder of London-based firm Lartey & Co, is the first Black male president of the London Criminal Courts Solicitors’ Association, reported the Law Society Gazette.
The appointment was made official at the organization’s annual meeting on Monday November 3. Lartey succeeds Casey Jenkins in the role.
Lartey said he aimed to sustain Jenkins’ focus on solicitors’ wellbeing.
“The job we do is not easy. The hours are long, the pressure and stakes are high, and the emotional toll is real. But we love what we do. We must make wellbeing a collective responsibility, not just a personal one,” Lartey said in a statement published by the Gazette.
He also sought to prioritize bringing fresh talent into the profession.
“We must encourage new entrants and support younger lawyers starting their journey. We have to show this profession is worth joining. It is a career that makes a real difference, upholds justice and gives a voice to the voiceless,” Lartey said in a statement published by the Gazette.
He also highlighted the impact of the recent Legal Aid Agency cyberattack, the significant courts backlog, and legal aid rates that have not kept up with the cost of living. He sought a meeting with lord chancellor David Lammy to tackle the challenges identified.
“We are stronger when we work together – across firms, communities, the justice system. Collaboration gives credibility, influence and the power to drive meaningful change. By standing together, we amplify our voice and ensure that it’s heard where it matters most. I ask you to stay engaged, stay connected,” Lartey said at the LCCSA annual meeting in a statement published by the Gazette. “Criminal law is built on compassion, integrity and justice, and each of us has a role to play in its future.”
Lartey was qualified to practise 13 years ago. His firm, Lartey & Co, focuses on issues involving criminal law, extradition law, regulatory law and professional discipline, appeals, confiscation cases, and cash seizure and forfeiture proceedings.
The LCCSA elected Angela Campbell as its first Black female president in 2005.
