Hylton Quail was elected unopposed for the presidency, with Simon Watters and Dr Christopher Kendall elected as vice presidents.

Quail is currently working as a barrister at Francis Burt Chambers in Perth, but previously worked as a criminal lawyer in sole practice. He has represented some notable individuals, including Robbie Sebastian Wheeler, a convicted pedophile and Jemaah Islamiyah member, Jack Roche, who was convicted of conspiracy to bomb the Canberra-based Israeli Embassy in 2004.

Quail said in a statement that he is looking forward to promoting the work of lawyers throughout the state, and providing the "community with a better understanding of the rule of law and separation of powers, the justice system and the role of lawyers".

The Law Society said key agenda items for 2010 include continued resistance to any impending legislation that may jeopardise the rights of citizens, improving access to justice across the state and better meeting young lawyer needs.