Switalskis director John McQuater has been appointed as chair of the Civil Justice Committee by The Law Society. With over 40 years of experience as a litigation lawyer, McQuater brings valuable insights to the role. The Civil Justice Committee focuses on improving civil litigation policy, particularly concerning legal disputes between individuals or individuals and organizations. In his new position, McQuater aims to shape and implement Law Society policy by leveraging the views and expertise of committee members.
Expressing his thoughts on the appointment, McQuater acknowledges the challenges ahead, including the extension of fixed costs and the discussion surrounding Strategic Lawsuits Against Public Participation (SLAPPs). He hopes to contribute context and insights drawn from his extensive experience to address these pressing issues. McQuater also appreciates the support of his colleagues at Switalskis who also work at a national level.
Lubna Shuja, President of the Law Society of England and Wales, welcomes and congratulates John McQuater on his appointment. Given McQuater’s prior service on the committee, she believes he is well-equipped to lead its work for the next four years. The committee’s focus areas include civil litigators and access to justice, areas in which McQuater possesses significant expertise.
Apart from his role on the Civil Justice Committee, McQuater is a member of the Association of Personal Injury Lawyers and holds accredited status as a senior fellow, a distinction unique to Yorkshire. He has authored publications such as ‘Model Letters for Personal Injury Lawyers’ and the ‘APIL Guide to Personal Injury Claims Procedure’. Moreover, he has served as president of the Doncaster and District Law Society and the Yorkshire Union of Law Societies.