Annual Legal Service - 11/10/2026

Sunday 11 October 2026 saw the Annual Legal Service, marking the opening of the legal year, take place in the magnificent surroundings of York Minster.

This once again provided a fitting opportunity to celebrate the traditions, values and public service at the heart of the legal profession and Duncan Morter, President of the Yorkshire Law Society, was honoured to represent the Society at the event.

The occasion brought together senior members of the judiciary and legal profession from across the region, including the presidents of 15 local law societies, barristers, Circuit Judges, High Court Judges, Court of Appeal Judges and even a Justice of the Supreme Court. Civic dignitaries were also in attendance, including the Lord-Lieutenant, the Under Sheriff and the Lord Mayor.

Proceedings began at the Assembly Rooms in York, where participants gathered in their ceremonial robes and regalia before forming a formal procession through the city streets to York Minster. Escorted by mounted police, the procession attracted considerable attention from members of the public and visitors to the city, many of whom stopped to watch, take photographs and applaud as the procession passed.

The weather could scarcely have been better. Beneath clear blue skies and in the autumn sunshine, the procession made its way to the Minster for a service reflecting on the importance of justice, the rule of law and the responsibilities carried by those working within the legal system.

Following the service, the procession returned to the Assembly Rooms, providing further opportunity for members of the profession and judiciary to meet and reflect on the year ahead.

The Annual Legal Service remains one of the most significant ceremonial occasions in the legal calendar. It serves as a powerful reminder of the history, public service and enduring importance of the legal profession, while also highlighting the close relationship between the law, the courts and the communities they serve.