Former Scottish Legal Aid Board chief exec to chair Community Justice Scotland

Scales of justice - Image credit: Clyde Robinson via Flickr

A former chief executive of the Scottish Legal Aid Board has been appointed as the new chair of Community Justice Scotland.

Lindsay Montgomery was chief executive of the Scottish Legal Aid Board from 1999 until 2015, during which time he was also a member of the Scottish Government’s Justice Board.

He is currently a visiting professor at the University of Strathclyde School of Law and chair of a number of charities and third sector organisations, including Keep Scotland Beautiful, the Scottish Charity Regulator OSCR and the Scottish Government Digital Transformation Board.

Montgomery was awarded a CBE for services to the administration of justice in 2009.

He will take on the role of chair of Community Justice Scotland from 13 May 2019.

Commenting on the appointment, community safety minister Ash Denham said: “Community Justice Scotland has played a key role in promoting crime prevention, early intervention, supporting rehabilitation and reducing re-offending, contributing to a 19-year low in reconviction rates.

“Lindsay Montgomery brings a wealth of experience in leadership and governance from a career working with the Scottish Legal Aid Board and other organisations in the justice system.

“Working with the chief executive, Mr Montgomery will lead the change in the use of short-term custodial sentences and move towards an increased use of more effective community-based alternatives and services within the criminal justice system.

“His insight and enthusiasm will be invaluable when identifying expertise and working in partnership with organisations across the sector – including partners in the third sector whose work is crucial – to deliver a safer Scotland for all.”

Montgomery said: “I am delighted to have the opportunity as chair of Community Justice Scotland to help drive forward its important role, working with a wide range of partners in reducing re-offending in Scotland.

“Success in this will have a significant impact on the lives of many people in communities across the country.”