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- Tasks: Join our Edinburgh team to manage complex international disputes and advise clients across various sectors.
- Company: Global law firm with a commitment to innovation and inclusion.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, diverse work environment, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Why this job: Gain hands-on experience in high-stakes litigation and make a real impact on international cases.
- Qualifications: Qualified Solicitor in Scotland with strong litigation experience; multi-disciplinary background preferred.
- Other info: Dynamic team culture with a focus on collaboration and personal development.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
We are currently looking to recruit a motivated, bright and ambitious international commercial disputes associate to join our Edinburgh team. Our Edinburgh team advises on high value and complex litigation and international arbitration. Acting for a diverse, international client and sector base, the successful candidate will gain direct experience in all aspects of dispute avoidance, management and resolution of high quality, high value and highly complex, and often international, disputes.
The role will be based in our Edinburgh office but will also require travel to client sites and our other UK and international offices from time to time.
Responsibilities
- Advising on all aspects of disputes avoidance, management and resolution of high quality, highly complex disputes across a range of sectors
- Management of disputes and preparation of strategies for dealing with claims, be they by international arbitration, litigation, adjudication, expert determination or mediation
- Drafting, reviewing and amending a range of dispute related documents (ranging from pleadings to pre action letters)
- Strategically advising clients and managing client expectations and project delivery appropriately
- Liaising with and taking instruction from clients
- Attending client meetings
- Business development
- Legal research
About You
We do not set upper or lower limits of PQE for any of our vacancies. We have, however, given an indicative PQE as an approximate guide for applicants. Candidates who have between 1- and 6-years’ experience are likely to have the right level of knowledge and have gained the right level of experience needed to be able to undertake this role.
The Ideal Candidate Will
- be a qualified Solicitor, qualified in Scotland and a member of the Law Society of Scotland
- have strong litigation experience gained in a leading Scottish, City or other top regional firm, but must be admitted to practice law in Scotland. Being additionally qualified to practice in England & Wales (or a willingness or desire to do so) is advantageous, but not essential
- have multi-disciplinary experience, including litigation, arbitration and alternative dispute resolution
- have a specific interest in supporting clients operating in at least one of the Financial Services; Energy and Natural Resources; Industrials (including Space); Technology or Life Sciences sectors
- be able to demonstrate a deep understanding of the technical issues that are key to clients
- have experience working across jurisdictions and advising international clients
- non-English language skills are desirable, though not essential
- be capable of building and developing their own network of internal and external contacts
- draft documents using a commercial, client focussed style
- comply with professional standards and all relevant regulatory obligations
- comply with the firm’s systems, policies and procedures in all matters - including compliance, financial systems and time recording
- know and understand how to best utilise information and research resources
Behavioural Skills
- Commercially astute and stays current on key legal and business news
- Excellent skills in communication, client relations, and team-working
- Provides a professional, quality service in a timely manner, and responds effectively to requests from internal and external clients
- Understands positive client support
- Creates confidence in the team and the firm
- Works co-operatively in a team, sharing information and knowledge
- Manages time effectively and efficiently
- Seeks to manage own utilisation wherever possible in order to meet individual and team targets
- Takes ownership for achieving agreed objectives
- Recognises and seizes opportunities for the firm, including repeat business
- Builds and develops own network of internal and external contacts
- Awareness of business development initiatives in the department and identifies ways to contribute
- Maintains a controlled, objective and flexible approach under pressure
- Exhibits behaviour consistent with the firm’s values and builds relationships based on respect, trust and integrity
- Exposure to, or experience of, advocacy within the Scottish legal system is highly desirable though not essential
About Us
We’re a global law firm helping our clients achieve their goals wherever they do business. Our pursuit of innovation has transformed our delivery of legal services. With offices in the Americas, Europe, the Middle East, Africa and Asia Pacific, we deliver exceptional outcomes on cross-border projects, critical transactions and high-stakes disputes.
At DLA Piper, we understand that inclusion is not a one-size-fits-all concept. We embrace and celebrate the range of perspectives, backgrounds and experiences that each individual brings to our firm. By fostering a culture that welcomes and appreciates all aspects of our individuality, we ensure that everyone has the opportunity to succeed.
Our commitment to inclusion and positive social impact enables us to provide exceptional service to our clients and communities, while nurturing a unique and inclusive culture for all our people. We welcome the unique contribution that you will bring to our firm and actively encourage applications from all talented people – however your talent is packaged, whatever your background or circumstance and regardless of how you identify.
We are committed to being accessible and accommodating any reasonable adjustments needed throughout the recruitment process to ensure an inclusive experience for all. If you need any support or adjustments, please let us know.
Where local legislation permits, we will conduct relevant pre-engagement screening checks prior to your first day.
Commercial Litigation Associate / Senior Associate employer: DLA Piper
Contact Detail:
DLA Piper Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Commercial Litigation Associate / Senior Associate
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the legal field, especially those who work in commercial litigation. Attend industry events or webinars to meet potential employers and get your name out there.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the firm and its recent cases. Show them you’re not just another candidate; demonstrate your understanding of their work and how you can contribute to their success.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your pitch! Be ready to explain your experience and how it aligns with the role. Highlight your multi-disciplinary skills and any international exposure you've had – that’s a big plus!
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, we love seeing candidates who take the initiative to engage directly with us.
We think you need these skills to ace Commercial Litigation Associate / Senior Associate
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Experience: When you're writing your application, make sure to highlight your litigation experience and any international exposure you've had. We want to see how your background aligns with the complex disputes we handle.
Tailor Your Documents: Don’t just send a generic CV and cover letter! Tailor them to reflect the specific skills and experiences that match the job description. We love seeing candidates who take the time to connect their experience with what we do.
Be Clear and Concise: Keep your writing clear and to the point. We appreciate a well-structured application that gets straight to the heart of your qualifications and motivations. Avoid fluff and focus on what makes you a great fit for us!
Apply Through Our Website: Make sure to apply through our website for the best chance of being noticed. It’s the easiest way for us to keep track of your application and ensures you’re considered for the role you’re excited about!
How to prepare for a job interview at DLA Piper
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you brush up on the key legal principles related to commercial litigation and international arbitration. Familiarise yourself with recent high-profile cases in these areas, especially those relevant to the sectors mentioned in the job description. This will show your potential employer that you're not just knowledgeable but also genuinely interested in the field.
✨Showcase Your Experience
Prepare to discuss your previous litigation experience in detail. Be ready to share specific examples of how you've managed complex disputes or contributed to successful outcomes. Highlight any multi-disciplinary work you've done, especially if it relates to financial services, energy, or technology sectors, as this aligns with what they’re looking for.
✨Client-Centric Mindset
Demonstrate your understanding of client relations by discussing how you've managed client expectations in past roles. Think of examples where you’ve had to balance client needs with legal strategies. This will illustrate your ability to provide a professional service while maintaining strong relationships.
✨Be Ready for Scenario Questions
Expect scenario-based questions that test your problem-solving skills in real-world situations. Prepare by thinking through potential disputes you might encounter in the role and how you would approach them. This will help you showcase your strategic thinking and ability to handle pressure effectively.
