John Wotton named as new Law Society deputy vice president

The Law Society has announced the results of the 2009 presidential elections.

Allen & Overy competition lawyer John Wotton will be starting office as deputy vice president in July this year when Bob Heslett becomes president and Linda Lee becomes vice president.

Mr Wotton, from Kent, will help lead the profession through a period of complex change and challenge. He is a consultant to Allen & Overy’s antitrust practice, working on competition law and public procurement cases. He was a partner from 1984 to 2007. He has advised clients on many high-profile cases before the UK competition and regulatory authorities and the European Commission.

He is closely involved in the media sector, with a focus on regulation and judicial review. In utilities, energy and transport, his work has focused mainly on the water, oil, gas and rail industries. His practice has a global focus, with clients in Europe, North America and Asia requiring advice on competition law and regulation in many jurisdictions. He has also worked extensively for government agencies and regulators, as well as for private sector clients.

Mr Wotton said: “It is a great honour to be elected deputy vice president and a great responsibility, especially at such a challenging and exciting time. I believe strongly in a single solicitor’s profession. City firms need a strong Law Society, which understands their priorities and can work with them, at home and abroad. I aim to work for each and every member of the profession to ensure that the Law Society offers them the support and services solicitors want.”

Paul Marsh, president of the Law Society, congratulated John on his appointment: “There was an extremely high standard of candidates this year and I’m sure John will make an excellent President.

“John has made a considerable impact on Council since his arrival and I’m sure his connections will be extremely useful. I’m sure John’s experience will ensure that the Law Society is a modern, effective body that represents the needs of all solicitors in England and Wales and abroad.”