At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead M&A transactions and advise on corporate governance for innovative start-ups.
- Company: Dynamic law firm supporting high-growth companies across various sectors.
- Benefits: Flexible hours, remote work, and the chance to work with ambitious founders.
- Other info: Ideal for consultants or senior associates seeking flexibility in their legal practice.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in a fast-paced environment while enjoying work-life balance.
- Qualifications: 5+ years PQE with strong corporate background and independent transaction management skills.
The predicted salary is between 50 - 75 £ per hour.
We’re supporting a start-up focused law firm that is looking to engage an experienced corporate lawyer on a fractional, interim basis to support its growing client base. This is not a permanent role and not a salaried position. It is designed for someone operating on a self-employed / consultancy basis, able to support the team on an hourly basis for approximately 20 hours per week over summer.
The Firm
The firm works with over 400 ambitious, high-growth companies across sectors including AI, fintech, defence, gaming, fashion and crypto. The model blends private practice expertise with embedded, commercial legal support for founders and scale-ups. Clients treat the lawyers as part of their team - practical, responsive and commercially minded.
The Work
You will support the team on a broad range of corporate matters, including:
- Leading small-cap M&A transactions (buy-side and sell-side)
- Asset sales
- Drafting and negotiating SPAs, APAs, shareholder agreements and articles
- Advising on governance, directors’ duties and statutory compliance
- Supporting joint ventures and strategic partnerships
- Working directly with founders and management teams
This is hands-on, client-facing work.
What We’re Looking For
- 5+ years PQE (or equivalent strength and experience)
- Strong corporate background (M&A, reorgs, governance)
- Comfortable running transactions independently
- Commercial, pragmatic approach suited to founder-led businesses
- Able to work autonomously and integrate into a small, entrepreneurial team
- Comfortable operating on an hourly / consultancy basis
- VC or scale-up exposure is helpful but not essential if corporate fundamentals are strong.
Commercial Structure:
- Fractional / consultancy arrangement
- Approx. 20 hours per week (flexible)
- Hourly rate (to be agreed)
- UK tax resident required
This is well suited to:
- Consultants with existing portfolio work
- Senior associates exploring fractional practice
- Lawyers seeking flexibility without stepping away from quality transactional work
If you’re interested in high-quality corporate work on a flexible, fractional basis and comfortable operating in a fast-moving, founder-led environment, we’d be keen to speak.
Corporate Lawyer in Edinburgh employer: JHB & Partners
This innovative start-up law firm offers a unique opportunity for corporate lawyers seeking flexibility and meaningful engagement with high-growth companies across diverse sectors. With a collaborative work culture that values practical, responsive legal support, employees can expect to thrive in a dynamic environment while enjoying the benefits of remote work and the chance to contribute to exciting M&A transactions. The firm prioritises professional growth, making it an excellent choice for those looking to enhance their consultancy practice while working closely with ambitious founders.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Corporate Lawyer in Edinburgh
✨Networking in Legal Circles
Get involved in local bar associations or legal networking events. This is where you’ll meet potential clients and fellow freelancers who can refer you. Don't underestimate the power of a good chat over coffee – it can lead to future gigs!
✨Showcase Your Expertise
Start a blog or contribute articles to legal websites or forums. Sharing your insights on current legal issues can set you apart and draw attention from those needing your services. Plus, it builds your credibility in the freelance market.
✨Client Pipeline Essentials
Create a clear portfolio that highlights your previous legal work and client testimonials. Make sure it’s easy to find on your website. This will help potential clients see what you can do for them and build trust before they even reach out.
✨Keep an Eye on Job Boards
Freelance legal opportunities pop up in specific online job boards. Websites like LawCareers.Net or even general platforms like Upwork often have roles looking for freelance legal counsel. Regularly checking these can land you a project before others even hear about it!
We think you need these skills to ace Corporate Lawyer in Edinburgh
Some tips for your application 🫡
Showcase Your Specialisation:In the legal sector, it's all about the details. Be sure to highlight your specific areas of law, such as corporate, criminal, or family law, in your CV. Mention any relevant qualifications, certifications, and experience that clearly demonstrate your expertise in these fields.
Tailor Your Portfolio:For a freelance legal role, having a solid portfolio is essential. Include samples of your work like case studies, legal briefs, or articles you've written. Make sure they showcase your abilities and knowledge, as they'll give potential clients a clear idea of what you bring to the table.
Flexibility and Availability:When applying as a freelancer, be open about your availability and willingness to adapt. Include your preferred working hours and how you manage multiple clients. Flexibility can be a huge draw for potential clients, so let them know you’re the go-to person they can rely on.
Engage With Your Potential Clients:Take the time to craft personalised cover letters for each application. Mention how your unique skills can benefit JHB & Partners specifically. This engagement shows that you're genuinely interested and ready to contribute to their team from day one.
How to prepare for a job interview at JHB & Partners
✨Showcase Your Legal Expertise
As a freelancer in the legal field, it’s essential to demonstrate your depth of knowledge in specific areas of law relevant to JHB & Partners. Have a few examples ready of cases you've worked on or legal research you've conducted that showcases your expertise—whether it's contract law, intellectual property, or another niche.
✨Pitch Your Portfolio of Success
Bring along a portfolio that highlights your previous freelance work and successes. Include testimonials from clients, sample contracts you’ve navigated, or any articles you've published in legal journals. This not only shows your ability to deliver results but also your capacity for maintaining professional relationships.
✨Prepare for Scenario-Based Questions
Expect some scenario-based questions during your interview. This might involve ways to navigate tricky legal situations or ethical dilemmas. Be ready to think on your feet and showcase your problem-solving skills—even if it’s hypothetical, your approach matters!
✨Know Your Worth—And State It
When in discussions about your rates, be confident in what you bring to the table. Know the market rates for freelancers in your legal specialty and be prepared to justify your pricing based on your experience and case successes. Practice how you'll communicate this effectively during your chat with JHB & Partners.
