Paisley to host first-ever Legal Walk in support of access to justice

Paisley will host its first-ever Legal Walk this month, with the event raising funds to provide vital legal advice for those who need it most.

The walk, organised by local firm MJC LAW in partnership with The Faculty of Procurators in Paisley, is part of a UK-wide initiative led by The Access to Justice Foundation. Money raised will go to charities that support people facing legal problems and barriers to justice – services that can mean the difference between someone keeping their home, protecting their income, or safeguarding their future.

Graeme McWilliams, Chair of The Access to Justice Foundation Scotland committee, said: “I am delighted to welcome the inaugural Paisley Legal Walk and thrilled that we have six super Scottish Legal Walks taking place this autumn. Coming from the Renfrewshire area, I’m really looking forward to returning to Paisley next month to join this most welcome walk, which promotes access to justice and raises funds for local legal advice charities.”

The guided route will include the Donoghue v Stevenson Memorial, marking the famous “snail in the bottle” case that reshaped legal thinking worldwide.

The walk will be led by Hugh Gorman and Graeme McCormick of Paisley Tours, with each walker given a personal headset to enjoy the stories in full. As well as legal landmarks, the tour will explore Paisley’s wider social history.

Hugh Gorman said: “Walkers will be treated to the story of Paisley’s ‘Loom, Broom and Tomb’ – from the looms that clothed the world, to the witch trials that scarred the town’s past, and the lives and legacies of the people who shaped Paisley’s history.”

The event will bring together legal professionals, local businesses, history lovers, and families walking side by side in support of access to justice.

Matthew Coffield, solicitor and owner of MJC LAW, said: “Paisley is a powerhouse on so many fronts including architecture, music and justice. There is a lot of enjoyment available in Paisley’s powerful community, and we have created an opportunity for that to include our thriving legal community. We are committed to making this a positive and successful event and to establishing it as an annual tradition that Paisley can be proud of. The way our local community and partners have come together in support of this event shows the best of Paisley’s spirit.”

The walk is backed by national sponsors the Faculty of Advocates and the Law Society of Scotland, as well as local sponsors including Cochran Dickie Estate Agents, Digby Brown Solicitors, Walker Love, and MJC LAW. Community support has also come from Paul Dickson of Mill Magazine and The Faculty of Procurators in Paisley.

Paisley Tours will guide the route, bringing their trademark storytelling flair to make it a memorable evening for all involved.

Event Details:

• Date: Tuesday, 23 September 2025
• Registration: 5:00pm at Paisley Sheriff Court
• Welcome: Sheriff Mohan
• Walk start: 5:30pm
• Distance: 1.8 miles
• Finish: The Old Swan, Paisley – with post-walk refreshments

How to get involved:

• Register: via MJC LAW’s social media or sign up directly at https://forms.gle/e79xszCcvpmhjN8B8
• Donate: https://www.justgiving.com/page/paisleylegalwalk2025

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Headline photo: MJC LAW team photo