2026 Edinburgh, Scotland

Open to CLE attendees and their guests on their own. Palace of Holyroodhouse is the official Scottish residence of the British monarch and a cornerstone of Edinburgh’s royal history. Located at the end of the Royal Mile, the palace offers a fascinating look at centuries of monarchy, including the apartments of Mary, Queen of Scots, and beautifully preserved state rooms set against the dramatic backdrop of Arthur’s Seat.  Purchase tickets.

A guided educational session exploring the legal and constitutional framework of the Scottish Parliament, examining the origins of devolution in the United Kingdom, the Parliament’s legislative authority and areas of devolved competence, its role within Scotland’s legal system, and its constitutional relationship with the UK Parliament at Westminster. The session also addresses the practical implications of devolved governance on legislation, regulation, and legal practice, providing attorneys with comparative insights into parliamentary structure and constitutional law

At 1:30 p.m., we will regroup for transportation to the Law Society of Scotland.

A structured educational session featuring a discussion with a Scottish Advocate or member of a Criminal Law Committee, providing an overview of Scotland’s criminal court system and civil law framework. The session examines court structure, jurisdiction, and procedural distinctions within the Scottish legal system, offering attorneys comparative insights into criminal and civil practice in an international context.

This seminar critically examines whether the EU’s Digital Markets Act (DMA) can truly rein in the power of large digital companies. While the DMA is widely presented as a landmark reform aimed at restoring competition in digital markets, the seminar argues that its regulatory model contains significant structural weaknesses.

Drawing on key European Commission enforcement decisions in the years leading up to the DMA’s adoption, the speaker demonstrates how traditional antitrust tools repeatedly struggled to address exclusionary practices by dominant firms. The seminar then shows how the DMA’s obligations-based framework risks replicating these shortcomings, leaving important gaps that may allow gatekeepers to continue engaging in well-known anticompetitive strategies.

The seminar concludes by outlining targeted reforms needed to strengthen the EU’s approach to regulating large digital companies. Without such changes, the DMA may fall short of its promise to deliver meaningful contestability in digital markets.

You may choose to be on your own for the day or experience a legendary day of golf at the St. Andrews New Course, where classic links design meets the rich tradition of the Home of Golf.

Enjoy a Whiskey Experience Dinner in the heart of Edinburgh, where rich Scottish flavors meet time-honored tradition. Savor a thoughtfully prepared dinner paired with guided tastings that explore the history and craftsmanship of Scotland’s renowned whisky. This relaxed and flavorful experience offers the perfect blend of education, culture, and camaraderie.

Explore the best of Scotland’s east coast on this scenic full-day tour from Edinburgh! Visit charming fishing villages in the Kingdom of Fife, marvel at the iconic Forth Bridges, and enjoy free time in St Andrews — home to ancient university ruins, dramatic cathedral remains, and the legendary Old Course, the birthplace of golf. Wander cobbled streets, take in stunning coastal views, and discover historic gems like Falkland before returning to Edinburgh in the early evening.

Enjoy a scenic round of golf at Dalmahoy Golf Course, offering championship play set against the rolling countryside just outside Edinburgh.

Things are different when you go to court in the UK. First, there’s the judges. Professor Tierney, former Board Member of the Scotland Judicial Appointments Board, will discuss how Scotland’s judicial appointments are entirely different than in the US, and less controversial. Instead of presidential appointments and a major role for the US Senate, how about an independent body composed largely of lay people? How would that play in America?

And then there are the juries. Did you know that Scottish criminal courts consider three possible verdicts? Hear about the ‘not proven’ verdict and its resulting controversy. We’ll also explore evidence rules, hearsay, trial procedure, the protection of vulnerable witnesses, and proposals to dispense with juries altogether in some criminal cases.

TBD

TBD

Enjoy an unforgettable evening in the heart of Edinburgh at the historic Merchants’ Hall — a stately 19th-century venue steeped in Scottish heritage and architectural grandeur. Dine in magnificent surroundings with a delicious dinner, and elevate your experience by wearing traditional Highland attire with included kilt and sash rentals, adding authentic Scottish flair to the night. Whether you’re celebrating heritage, enjoying great company, or capturing memorable photos in tartan, this event blends elegant dining with cultural style.

**Measurement instructions will be provided after registration.

Check-Out Time is 12 pm