Welcome to the site of the United Kingdom Association of Jewish Lawyers & Jurists, this country’s branch of the International Association of Jewish Lawyers & Jurists, which makes us part of a global family. We have served the interests of Jewish lawyers and the Anglo-Jewish community, and those who share our values, for many years by our commitment to the rule of law and the role of the law in securing a just society which respects human rights and dignity and combats antisemitism.We seek to explore the legal issues of the day that have a bearing on our particular interests in a wholly non-political and open-minded way, to celebrate the contribution made by Jewish lawyers, and to provide encouragement and opportunities for younger lawyers. We welcome your interest in our activities, extend a warm invitation to you attend our events and hope you will consider becoming a member. Please contact us if you have any queries.
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We are deeply saddened by the attack on Heaton Park Synagogue on Yom Kippur; and offer our heartfelt condolences. We stand in solidarity with the Jewish community in Manchester and across the UK. This act of violence was not only an attack against innocent victims, but also against the freedom, safety and security of British Jewry.
There can be no tolerance for antisemitism, nor hate, of any kind. As an Association, we will continue our commitment to upholding the rule of law, combating antisemitism and protecting the rights of those in our community and beyond.
We would also like to thank all those people who put themselves at risk to secure the safety of our synagogues and congregations.
It is with great regret that we announce the death on 6 May 2025 of The Rt Hon the Lord Etherton GBE KC PC, former Master of the Rolls and one of our Vice-Presidents. We offer our condolences to his husband, Andrew Stone, and family at this very sad time.
In response to the recent rise in antisemitism, and in particular the increase in antisemitic incidents on university campuses, the Association of International Jewish Lawyers has partnered with the World Union of Jewish Students (WUJS) and B’nai Brith International to launch a legal assistance project, tailored to the needs of Jewish students. Students who want to explore avenues for redress can contact: campus@bnaibrith.org or info@wujs.org.il.In addition, Asserson Law Offices is offering free legal advice and confidential support for students affected by antisemitism. They can be contacted at: campus@asserson.co.uk.UKLFI can also be contacted regarding concerns about anti-Israel or antisemitic activity at: office@uklficharity.com
The committee of the UKAJLJ would like to bring the following initiative to your attention.
The Paperweight Trust is an organisation which was set up to provide support to people within the community, a bit like a Mckenzie friend. It is not a substitute for a solicitor, but is more in terms of helping you to prepare and communicate better when you do not have a friend to help you. It is a supportive role rather than replacing the professionals themselves. They help people with financial issues, legal issues including divorce, Get, children, landlord and tenant and navigating welfare and benefits.
1. They are in particular looking for volunteers who are capable of using their common sense more than legal expertise; although at present, would like those with property/ landlord and tenant experience.
2. Volunteers are allocated to people who need help on the basis of whatever expertise they have. Volunteers are allocated to a client based on a best match process.
3. Many volunteers are not lawyers. Training is given.
4. They say that (i) there is no need for a practising certificate, and (ii) they have their own insurance: you should ask for confirmation from them directly.
5. It is not a legal advice centre, but rather somewhere to go when one is feeling lost or overwhelmed by one's current situation, which could range from bereavement, illness, financial or family difficulties.
6. Clients are seen either at the centre or at their home (subject to safeguarding checks).
7. There is a family law clinic once a week.
8. They are trying to increase their presence through Jewish press and social media, marketing events and going into schools. They are thinking of other ways in which to raise their profile.
9. Most clients are Jewish. However, they won't turn someone away based on race or religion.
10. There is an upcoming initiative they are calling NextGen, which aims to reach students to inform them of their work and to offer services. The students might also become volunteers and offer intergenerational support to older members of the community.
UKAJLJ Committee
