SCOTLAND'S legal regulator has outlined its key priorities for the next UK Government - including the protection of human rights, a stable devolution settlement for Scotland and clarity over European Union membership.
The Law Society of Scotland (LSS) also urged political parties to focus on growing the economy should they come to power following the General Election.
The priorities, published in a new LSS document, call on the new government to retain the Human Rights Act and ensure the UK remains within the jurisdiction of the European Convention on Human Rights (ECHR).
They also recommend that legislation is brought forward as soon as practicable after the election to allow the implementation of the Smith Agreement.
LSS president Alistair Morris said: "A general election is an important event and allows for a national debate on a wide range of issues.
"Whatever the election outcome, there are major issues needing tackled and some big decisions to take, decisions which could have profound implications for our country.
"Last year, the referendum debate saw an unprecedented level of political engagement here in Scotland along with a record turnout at the polls.
"It is vital that the political parties harness that momentum in the run up to the UK election in May.
"Just as with the referendum last year, we very much look forward to being part of the national debate and will be discussing our priorities with the political parties over the coming weeks."
On human rights, Mr Morris said withdrawing from the ECHR or repealing legislation could "damage the UK's standing in the international community".
He added: "The next UK Government, whatever its makeup, must protect human rights and respect the views of the Scottish Parliament before any decisions are taken on the legal framework of human rights here in Scotland."
The Society also calls for the future Government to provide clarity on EU membership and analyse whether or not an exit would have a detrimental effect on intra-UK relations.
The document also urges politicians to support the role of the legal sector in securing long term economic growth.
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