DAVID PRESTON

Dispute Resolution / Mediation:

As a solicitor in the Highlands & Islands for over 30 years I have represented hundreds of clients in a wide range of disputes including family and commercial matters.
I have been an Accredited Mediator since 2004.
As President of the Law Society of Scotland in 2002-2003 I studied aspects of different methods of dispute resolution throughout the world.
I visited Maryland in 2003 where mediation is used extensively in the courts as well as in education, the community, family matters and consumer issues.
Mediation is used widely in other parts of the world including England, Canada, Australia and South Africa.
My experience in the law and involvement with the Law Society of Scotland have made me knowledgeable in many aspects of life, not just the law, although a legal background it is very useful to help others to find solutions to their problems and disputes.

Over 30 years experience in general practice covering:
- Conveyancing
- Litigation
- Executry
- Small and family business
On the Council of the Law Society I convened and / or served on:
- Client Relations Committees
- Professional Practice Committee
- Guarantee Fund Committee
- Education & Training Committee
- Client Care & Practice Management Committee
As President of the Law Society:
- Extensive experience and insight into the legal profession in Scotland.
- Represented the profession nationally and internationally.
I am currently:
- Convener of Mental Health Tribunal
- Convener of Private Rented Housing Panel
- Legal Assessor to Sub-Committees of the General Teaching Council for Scotland
- Accredited Mediator
From 2004 – 08 I was contracted to the ARTL project with Registers of Scotland.