At a Glance
- Tasks: Provide expert legal advice and representation in criminal cases.
- Company: Join a supportive and inclusive Public Defence Solicitors’ Office in Falkirk.
- Benefits: Enjoy a competitive salary, generous leave, and flexible working options.
- Other info: Opportunities for professional growth and a vibrant team culture.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in the community while developing your legal skills.
- Qualifications: Must have a full practising certificate and strong knowledge of Scots criminal law.
The predicted salary is between 61820 - 61820 € per year.
Public Defence Solicitors’ Office Falkirk
Grade: 7 | Employment type: permanent | Hours: full time (35 hrs per week) | Starting salary: £61,820 | Directorate: Client Legal Services (CLS) | Department: Public Defence Solicitors’ Office (PDSO) | Location: Falkirk | Closing date: 24 May 2026 (23:55)
We’re looking for an experienced and motivated Senior Solicitor to join our PDSO team in Falkirk and deliver high-quality criminal defence services across summary and solemn courts, as well as at police stations.
Key Responsibilities- Providing expert advice and representation to clients in criminal investigations and proceedings
- Representing clients in summary and solemn courts, and at police stations, as a duty and nominated solicitor
- Applying legal practices, procedures, and Codes of Practice to ensure high-quality service delivery
- Building and maintaining a strong client base within the local area
- Supporting the Head of Office in achieving operational and strategic objectives
- Representing the organisation in dealings with external bodies
- Mentoring and supporting solicitors in managing caseloads and developing their skills
- Contributing to the training and development of staff within the PDSO
- A full and unrestricted practising certificate from the Law Society of Scotland
- In-depth knowledge of the criminal justice system and legal aid
- Strong practical experience in Scots criminal law, including court advocacy
- Experience advising and assisting clients in police detention
- The ability to handle complex cases requiring specialist legal knowledge
- Strong judgement and decision-making skills, with the ability to evaluate options effectively
- Excellent communication and presentation skills, with the ability to influence and persuade
- The ability to mentor, coach, and support the development of colleagues
- 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
Senior Solicitor in Falkirk employer: Scottish Legal News
Join the Public Defence Solicitors’ Office in Falkirk, where you will be part of a dedicated team committed to delivering high-quality criminal defence services. We pride ourselves on fostering a supportive and inclusive work culture that values professional development, offering generous annual leave, flexible working arrangements, and comprehensive wellbeing support. As a Senior Solicitor, you will not only make a meaningful impact in the community but also have the opportunity to mentor and develop your colleagues in a role that truly matters.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior Solicitor in Falkirk
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your contacts in the legal field, attend local events, and join relevant groups. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings or can put in a good word for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by practising common questions and scenarios specific to criminal law. We recommend role-playing with a friend or mentor to build your confidence and refine your responses.
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your expertise! Bring along case studies or examples of your work to interviews. This not only demonstrates your skills but also gives potential employers a taste of what you can bring to their team.
✨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 are genuinely interested in joining our PDSO team.
We think you need these skills to ace Senior Solicitor in Falkirk
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter for the Senior Solicitor role. Highlight your experience in criminal law and any relevant cases you've handled. We want to see how your skills align with what we're looking for!
Showcase Your Expertise:Don’t hold back on demonstrating your knowledge of the criminal justice system. Include specific examples of your court advocacy and client representation. This is your chance to shine, so let us know what makes you the perfect fit!
Be Clear and Concise:When writing your application, keep it straightforward and to the point. Use clear language and avoid jargon where possible. We appreciate a well-structured application that’s easy to read and understand.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to submit your application through our website. It’s the easiest way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, you’ll find all the info you need about the application process there!
How to prepare for a job interview at Scottish Legal News
✨Know Your Criminal Law Inside Out
Make sure you brush up on Scots criminal law and recent case law. Being able to discuss specific cases or legal principles during the interview will show your depth of knowledge and passion for the field.
✨Showcase Your Advocacy Skills
Prepare to demonstrate your court advocacy experience. Think of examples where you've successfully represented clients, and be ready to explain your approach and the outcomes. This will highlight your practical experience and ability to handle complex cases.
✨Communicate Clearly and Confidently
Practice articulating your thoughts clearly. You’ll need to convey complex legal concepts in an understandable way, so focus on your communication skills. Consider doing mock interviews with a friend to refine your delivery.
✨Emphasise Mentorship Experience
Since mentoring is a key part of the role, prepare to discuss your experience in supporting and developing colleagues. Share specific examples of how you've helped others grow in their legal careers, as this will demonstrate your leadership potential.
