Career Progression at the Law Society of Scotland

Thinking of the next step?

In the modern business world, planning ahead is key to success. But if you only plan for your clients' business you could be missing out on your own career development. After all, the skills and experience you've gained in your career to date, could be the springboard to a whole new arena - potentially giving you a world of new opportunities.

Whatever direction you're thinking of, the Society can help you to take the next step in your career.

Accredited specialist

The Society recognises specialisms in various areas of the law where solicitors can demonstrate expertise.  A solicitor may apply to become an accredited specialist in agricultural law, charity law, child law, etc. Being an accredited specialist allows your clients and potential clients to see your level of expertise in your chosen field.

Application is by a simple form accompanied by two references. Full details of the procedure can be obtained on our website.  Please contact either James Ness or Sharon McFarlane in the registrar department on 0131 476 8151 if you have further queries.

Solicitor advocate

Experienced solicitor litigators have had the opportunity to apply for extended Rights of Audience before the Court of Session or the High Court.

Having all the background knowledge of a case and being free to present it personally, removes the risk of a possible last minute change of counsel and avoids the client paying for duplicated skills.

Full details of the criteria and experience required, and a copy of the application form can be accessed on our website. Please contact Bruce Ritchie or any member of the Professional Practice team for further information.

Commercial and family law mediator

Alternative dispute resolution is popular with clients because it can be quicker and cheaper than going to court. Mediation requires the two sides to have an equal desire to resolve the issue by discussion but each party requires guidance from their professional advisor.

The Society recognises mediation as a specialism and operates two accreditation schemes:

Family Law Mediation with around 50 Accredited Family Mediators and Commercial Law Mediation with around 5 Accredited Mediators.

Full details of the criteria and experience required, and a copy of the application form can be accessed on our website. Please contact Sharon McFarlane in the registrar department on 0131 476 8151 if you have any queries.

Arbitrator

Arbitration, as another form of alternative dispute resolution, may be preferred in certain circumstances . It offers enforceability, confidentiality and a structured process through which advisors can guide their clients to a solution anywhere in the world, regardless of the local jurisprudence.

The Arbitration (Scotland) Act 2010 established a new basis for a flexible system of arbitration in Scotland and internationally.

The Society acts as arbitral appointments referee and has set up a new specialist accreditation in arbitration law.  Solicitors who are able to demonstrate experience and training in arbitration law will be able to apply for accredited specialist status according to the procedures.

You may wish to represent your clients in arbitration or to move towards a role as Arbitrator. The Society provides relevant training and continuing professional education to support either role.  Please contact Neil Stevenson for further information or if you have queries.

Becoming a partner

Whether you're joining the firm or setting out on your own the Society will help explain the technical requirements and can point you in the direction of practical information to consider.

A summary of the technical requirements and the contacts you can call upon for help and further advice is set out on our website.

Judicial Appointment

The Judicial Appointments Board for Scotland recommends to the Scottish Ministers individuals for appointment to judicial offices.

To apply for a judicial office in Scotland you must meet the statutory eligibility requirements. These criteria and further information about vacancies and the application process can be accessed from the Judicial Appointments Board for Scotland website.