In a year of historic commemorations, community engagement, and industry recognition, Innes & Mackay, a Highland firm of solicitors and estate agents, proudly celebrated its 150th anniversary by honouring its storied past and looking to the future.
From revisiting a pivotal moment in Scotland’s legal history to fostering community connections and celebrating the year’s achievements, the firm’s milestone anniversary has been one to remember.
In late 2024, trainee solicitor Amy Macleod uncovered a remarkable connection between Innes & Mackay and one of Scotland’s most pivotal moments in legal history.
Laura Cormack, Director of Property Law and Conveyancing at Innes & Mackay, said:
“Through her diligent research, Amy revealed the firm’s involvement in the Bernera Riot trial of 1874, a landmark case that marked the first documented legal victory for Highland crofters.
“This victory, secured by Charles Innes, one of the founding partners of Innes & Mackay, played a crucial role in sparking the crofters’ fight for justice and land reform in Scotland – shedding a new light on our firm’s historical significance and enduring commitment to justice.”
To honour this historic milestone, the firm joined a 17-mile commemorative walk organised by the Bernera Community Association and Bernera Museum on September 7.
Elsewhere, 2024 proved to be a year of significant achievement for Innes & Mackay, with the firm being awarded Gold at the British Property Awards for Best Estate Agents in Inverness and named Team of the Year at the Highland Business Women Awards.
In addition, the business was also shortlisted for the Corporate Social Responsibility Award at The Herald Law Awards of Scotland, reflecting the firm’s continued dedication to the community.
“These accolades are a testament to the hard work, expertise, and passion of our entire team,” Laura noted.
“However, being shortlisted for the Corporate Social Responsibility Award was a particularly proud moment.
“We’ve always been committed to making a positive impact in the communities we work.
“Whether through our professional services or charitable efforts, our focus remains on supporting the people and places we serve.”
With its strong sense of community spirit, Innes & Mackay used its anniversary as inspiration for the launch of a creative writing competition across Highland schools and nurseries, inviting entries on the theme of ‘new home’.
The winning submissions of this competition, along with runners-up, are set to be featured in a special edition anniversary book from the firm.
Prizes will be awarded for the winners in January, where a £500 donation will be made to the winners school to further develop their creative resources.Â
Now, as the firm steps into 2025, the team is looking ahead. Having welcomed new staff members in the latter stages of 2024, Innes & Mackay is gearing up for another busy and exciting year.
Laura shared:
“This year, we welcomed Sarah Jordan, our first fully remote solicitor, and Alison Foggo, who now leads our private client department, enhancing our ability to offer a wide range of services no matter where our clients are based.
“We’re also delighted to have Innes Cradock, a skilled conveyancing solicitor, alongside Robyn Chisholm and Donna Smart, our dedicated private client administrators, and Ken Macrae, our private client assistant.
“Their expertise and commitment will ensure we continue to deliver the exceptional service our clients know and trust.”
Innes & Mackay has been a constant presence in the Highlands for 150 years, providing a wide range of legal services to clients across the region from its base in Inverness.
The firm provides high-quality legal advice in property and land law, estate agency, family law, powers of attorney, wills, executries, and legal aid.
For more information about Innes & Mackay, visit www.innesmackay.com or follow the firm on social media on LinkedIn, Facebook, X (Twitter) and Instagram.
