Bolton solicitor-advocate Joe Egan, a criminal specialist, has been elected to the office of deputy vice-president, the Law Society announced today.

Egan, who qualified in 1982, will take office with the change in presidency in July. The current vice-president, Jonathan Smithers, will take over from Andrew Caplen as president and current deputy vice-president Robert Bourns will become vice-president.

The Society said that criminal specialist Egan, who runs a practice with two offices in Bolton, will help lead the profession through a time of rapid change as funding cuts, regulation and technology affect every aspect of the legal sector.

Egan said: ‘I look forward to making a contribution to the work of meeting the expectations of solicitors and I feel fortunate to take on this role at a time when the Law Society is seeking input from the people whose views are of crucial importance to our future direction – our members. 

‘Establishing a clear purpose will enhance the Society’s ability to support, promote and represent solicitors.’