Dear Members

Regular social and educational events are a key feature of any thriving Circuit and the European Circuit is no different. With this in mind, we have several events planned for the coming months:

• A Visit to the Hague in association with the Bar European Group, to include visits to the International Court of Justice (including the Peace Palace Library) and the International Criminal Tribunal for the Former Yugoslavia (6 – 7 September 2007)
• Our Annual Conference will take place in Luxembourg (18- 20 October 2007)
• A Bar Mess in Brussels (Spring 2008)

As many of you know from experience, not only do these events enable us to meet with fellow advocates from across many different jurisdictions to discuss law and practice in the European and international context, but also to socialise informally with one another to share ideas, experiences and opportunities. I look forward to meeting you over the coming months and extend that welcome to any practitioners who are not already members but have an interest in European practice: I hope you will join the Circuit and attend what events you can.

We plan to hold the AGM shortly and will take that opportunity to encourage more members to join the Executive Committee, to ensure in particular a good representation from the UK regions and those working in the EU. Every Circuit is dependent on the activity and involvement of its members, and I hope that as many of you as possible will support the planned events: if you would like to get involved or have any suggestions for future events, please contact me.