The London Solicitors Litigation Association (LSLA) has appointed John McElroy, partner at Fieldfisher, as its new president for a two-year term. He succeeds Nikki Edwards and takes on the role at a time of significant change for the litigation landscape, shaped by geopolitical pressures, technological developments and evolving court procedures.
McElroy will lead the organisation as it continues to engage with issues including artificial intelligence, sanctions and fraud-related claims, as well as the digitalisation of the courts. His priorities include strengthening ties between solicitors and the judiciary, fostering collaboration across the profession and advancing diversity, equity and inclusion initiatives.
He said: ‘I am honoured to become President of the LSLA’, adding that ‘the litigation community faces a range of challenges at present… Collaboration is vital to addressing them’. He also highlighted ‘a key priority… is furthering the dialogue between solicitors and the judiciary’.
McElroy paid tribute to his predecessor, noting ‘I would like to thank Nikki Edwards for her leadership’, and added that he looks forward to ‘building on that legacy during my presidency’ while ensuring London maintains its position ‘as the global litigation capital’.
He added: 'I would also like to pay tribute to Nicholas Heaton, President of the LSLA from 2022–2024, who passed away recently, and whose commitment to the LSLA leaves a lasting legacy. He was a much-valued colleague and friend.'
