Solicitor

Job title: Solicitor | Grade: 6 | Employment type: permanent | Hours: full time (35 hours per week) | Starting salary: £49, | Directorate: Client Legal Services | Department: Public Defence Solicitors’ Office | Location: Edinburgh | Closing date: 1 March (23:55) We’re looking for a committed and confident criminal defence solicitor to join our Public Defence Solicitors’ Office (PDSO) in Edinburgh. This is an exciting opportunity to make a real difference in the lives of clients, delivering high-quality legal representation in both solemn and summary proceedings. Key responsibilities include: Providing legal advice and representation to clients at police stations and in criminal courts as a nominated and duty solicitor Applying best practice and legal procedures to ensure effective case handling and operational efficiency Building and maintaining a local client base through excellent service and representation Representing PDSO in liaison with external organisations to support the wider objectives of Client Legal Services Contributing to staff training and development. To succeed in this role, you will need: A current, unrestricted practising certificate and enrolment as a solicitor with the Law Society of Scotland (or a pending application) Strong experience in Scots criminal law and criminal court procedure Experience advising clients in police detention and managing cases across summary and solemn courts Sound judgement and the ability to make objective, informed decisions under pressure Excellent written and verbal communication skills – persuasive, clear and client-focused Strong planning, organisational, and time management skills with an eye for quality A proactive, driven mindset with a high standard of personal ethics and professionalism A valid driving licence for travel to courts, client meetings, and other PDSO offices. What we offer: A meaningful role where your work makes a real impact A supportive, inclusive, and values-driven working environment Opportunities for learning and professional development Flexible working to support a healthy work-life balance A competitive salary and benefits package, including pension contributions Generous annual leave entitlement (34 days, rising to 42 days after two years’ service) Enhanced family-friendly leave entitlements Access to wellbeing support, mental health support and an employee assistance programme Access to a wide range of discounts (including gym and retail) and the Cycle to Work scheme through our partner Edenred For more details about this role and a full list of essential criteria and required competencies, please see the Job Description. Completed applications should be returned by Sunday 1 March (23:55) .

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