Law Society commissions practice note on distinct Welsh law and differences in legislation between Wales and England

It said the guidance, which will be developed with the University of Wales Trinity Saint David, will “highlight key areas where Welsh legislation differs and provide practical support for solicitors practising in Wales and those working across the border”.

The practice note will be developed by Dr Bronwen Williams, head of Swansea Law School at the University of Wales Trinity Saint David and a member of the Law Society’s National Board for Wales, alongside Dr Emyr Lewis, a leading Welsh lawyer and Emeritus Professor at Aberystwyth University.

The Law Society said: “Although England and Wales share a single legal jurisdiction, the body of Welsh legislation continues to expand across devolved areas such as housing, health, education and the environment.

“As these differences grow, it becomes increasingly important that solicitors advising clients in Wales identify and apply the correct legal framework.”

Dr Bronwen Williams said: “The university is working with the Law Society to highlight the importance of devolved legislation in Wales. It is imperative for practising solicitors to be cognisant of key areas that are devolved and the development of the legal framework. As universities, we need to embed this knowledge into our programmes, and it is already an established part of the law curriculum in Swansea Law School.”

The project forms part of the Law Society Wales Office’s ongoing work to support solicitors practising in Wales and those advising on Welsh matters across England and Wales.

Jonathan Davies, head of the Law Society Wales Office, said: “England and Wales operate under a single legal jurisdiction, but the body of law that applies in Wales is becoming increasingly distinct. In line with the Law Society’s Distinct, Not Separate position, we recognise and support the development of a distinct Welsh legal identity operating within the current devolution framework.

“However, as Welsh legislation continues to grow, it is important that solicitors understand where the law in Wales differs from that in England when advising clients. This practice note will provide practical guidance for solicitors practising in Wales, as well as for practitioners in England who advise on Welsh matters or work across the border.”