The Law Society is urging its members to be aware that new employment laws* which come into force on 1 October apply to the compulsory retirement of partners without any limitation. The exception for retirement at 65 or above (the national default retirement age) applies only to the retirement of employees, and not to partners.

Commenting on the new age discrimination laws, which come into effect in October 2006, Kevin Martin, Law Society president, says:

”Firms must be careful that they do not fall foul of the new regulations prohibiting age discrimination. When firms review their partnership agreements, they will have to ensure that any provision relating to partner age can be justified.”

* The Employment Equality (Age) Regulations 2006

The Law Society regulates and represents the solicitors’ profession in England and Wales and has a public interest role in working for reform of the law.

For more information, call the Law Society press office on 020 7320 5811.