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Scottish Legal News: Wednesday 1st December 2021

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High Court refuses application to introduce evidence of subsequent child contact litigation by man accused of rape

Lady Dorrian
Lady Dorrian
By Mitchell Skilling

The High Court of Justiciary has upheld the decision of a preliminary hearing judge in respect of an application by a man charged with three counts of rape to reject the introduction of evidence concerning events following the sexual encounter described in the third charge, including legal proceedings related to a child born as a result.

The appellant, MP, argued that his application ought to have been refused as unnecessary on the basis that the proposed evidence to be led was admissible at common law, and would allow a jury to reach relevant inferences concerning the complainer’s state of mind.

The appeal was considered by the Lord Justice Clerk, Lady Dorrian, sitting with Lord Turnbull and Lord Pentland. Duff, advocate, appeared for the appellant and A Prentice QC for the Crown.

Irrelevant and collateral

The appellant had lodged a special defence of consent in respect of the third charge of rape, which was libelled to have occurred on 23 December 2006. In an application under section 275 of the Criminal Procedure (Scotland) Act 1995, the appellant sought to introduce evidence concerning, among other things, the behaviour of the complainer afterwards, including a proposition that she had laughed when he was unable to find his socks following intercourse.

A child was born as a result of the encounter, which eventually led to litigation concerning contact and maintenance between the appellant and complainer. Following a sist in the contact action in January 2019, the complainer made an allegation of rape to the police. The appellant sought to introduce evidence concerning the litigation as part of his section 275 application on the basis that it would allow a jury to consider whether they found the complainer to be credible and reliable given the lengthy gap between the conduct and the allegation and the relevant dates involved.

It was considered by the preliminary hearing judge that the account of what happened afterwards was irrelevant to the question of consent at the time of intercourse. The judge also rejected several paragraphs of the application dealing with events after the birth of the child, which she considered to be irrelevant and collateral.

Counsel for the appellant submitted that the evidence concerning the events surrounding the litigation was admissible at common law. In respect of the post-encounter conduct of the complainer, the proposed evidence would allow a jury to be invited reasonably to infer that this was indicative of her state of mind during the preceding sexual intercourse. The court was invited to find that the application ought to have been refused as unnecessary and the evidence permitted to be led.

In response, the Crown submitted that the present appeal was not one “against a decision at a preliminary hearing”, as the appellant did not seek to reverse the decision but rather to adjust its reasoning. In any event, the preliminary hearing judge was entitled to take the view that the evidence sought to be led was inadmissible at common law and to refuse the paragraphs. Whilst the appellant was perfectly entitled to lead evidence of the 12-year delay in the making of the allegation, he would not be allowed to speculate about the reasons for that.

Fishing expedition

The opinion of the court was delivered by Lady Dorrian. Describing the basis for the appeal as “bizarre”, she noted: “The preliminary hearing judge in her report advises the court that the extraordinary approach taken in this application, and appeal, of setting out a whole series of paragraphs and then asserting that an application in respect of them is not necessary, is increasingly being taken in section 275 applications. It seems that a practice has developed to include proposed questions or evidence for which counsel maintains an application is unnecessary but upon which the court is nevertheless asked to make a ruling.”

She continued: “Where counsel consider that an application to the court is not necessary, then the making of an application stating this is absurd. If counsel consider that such an application is not necessary then they should not be making an application, taking up valuable court time on issues which are redundant. To the extent that an application under section 275 asserts on its face that it is unnecessary, or where counsel so submits, it is per se an incompetent application and should be refused on that ground.”

Endorsing the judge’s reasons for refusing the application, Lady Dorrian added: “There is no link between the two separate facts referred to in this submission – the making of the allegation and the family history - save in the imagination of counsel. There is no evidential basis for suggesting that the history in relation to the child has anything to do with the making of the allegation. There is no evidence to demonstrate a link, and the whole purpose of including this material is to enable counsel to go on a fishing expedition at trial.”

She concluded: “The issue of consent requires to be examined at the time of the act in question, not subsequent to it. Moreover, as the Advocate Depute submitted it is well understood that individuals may react to trauma in various and different ways. The preliminary judge was correct to refuse this paragraph as an example of detail of something said to have happened which would not assist the jury in their task, and thus irrelevant.”

The appeal was therefore refused.

Copyright © Scottish Legal News Ltd 2021

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Scottish government welcomes prison proposals

Keith Brown

A new process to investigate prison deaths has been welcomed "in principle" by Justice Secretary Keith Brown.

In November 2019, then Justice Secretary Humza Yousaf asked Wendy Sinclair-Gieben, Her Majesty’s Chief Inspector of Prisons for Scotland (HMCIPS) to review the response to deaths in prisons.

The review has made a number of recommendations, including that an independent body should carry out an investigation into every death in prison custody.

All of the review’s recommendations have been accepted in principle by the Scottish Government.

Other recommendations include involving families or next of kin of those who have died in prison custody in the investigation process and stipulating that investigations must be completed within a matter of months.

The review further recommends methods of learning from cases should be built into the entire process from the outset.

Justice Secretary Keith Brown said: “I would like to thank Her Majesty’s Chief Inspector of Prisons for Scotland and co-Chairs for the important work carried out and thank the families involved in the review. Their willingness to revisit the grief they experienced and the insights gained through their participation has made this important work possible.

“We accept in principle the review’s recommendations and will very carefully consider the detail of these and take forward as a matter of priority improvements with key partners that will effect change to improve the ways that deaths of loved ones in prison custody are experienced by bereaved families.

“This includes the key recommendation of an independent body separately examining every death in custody.

“We are committed to making improvements to the response to, and experiences of, families impacted by a death in custody.”

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Professor Derek Auchie joins Squaring Circles

Professor Derek Auchie

Derek Auchie, professor in dispute process law the University of Aberdeen, is the newest mediator to join Squaring Circles, a specialist mediation, negotiation and online dispute resolution business, and winner of the National Mediation Awards Newcomer of the Year Award 2020.

With a career spanning 25 years as a practising lawyer, academic on the law and practice of dispute resolution, mediator, arbitrator and tribunal judge, Professor Auchie is now growing his mediation practice, building on his expertise of workplace and commercial conflicts.

He said: “I am delighted to be joining Squaring Circles as a mediator. Having recently started my own dispute resolution enterprise, teaming up with an experienced and dynamic mediation provider is a positive and exciting next step.

"Workplace conflicts are likely to increase across all sectors in the coming years. Covid is undoubtedly driving some of that growth as people return to work on site.

"However, there is also an increasing awareness within organisations that early engagement with differences and disputes through the use of mediation, as opposed to formal disciplinary and grievance procedures, is far more effective at resolving conflict, restoring relationships and improving team morale.

"For commercial disputes, courts may be unable to provide the speed, value for money and peace of mind that comes with an agreed solution.”

"Mediator and founder of Squaring Circles, Rachael Bicknell said: “I am delighted that Derek is joining Squaring Circles as a mediator. His experience over the last 25 years, which has exposed him to people and conflict in many walks of life, brings something very unique to his mediation practice.

"As mediation continues to gain traction in Scotland, the Scottish market needs more experienced mediators. The mediators at Squaring Circles share a passion for mediation and work well together. So, in addition to our respective mediation practices we plan to roll out a co-mediation model for complex, high value or multiparty commercial and workplace disputes.”

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Morton Fraser appoints three new partners

Pictured (L-R): Jack Kerr, Chris McLeish and Andrew Walker

Morton Fraser has appointed three partners across its real estate, corporate and private client teams.

Two have come from other firms, with Chris McLeish joining Morton Fraser’s real estate team from DWF and Andrew Walker joining the corporate team from Addleshaw Goddard. Marking ongoing investment in existing talent, Jack Kerr has been appointed as a partner in the private client team.

The new appointments are a direct reflection of Morton Fraser’s talent first strategy, which seeks to invest in and develop the best possible legal talent through external appointments as well as internal promotions.

Chris Harte, CEO at Morton Fraser, said: “As businesses emerge from what are hopefully the most severe impacts of coronavirus, we have our sights set firmly on the firm’s future and are continuing to invest in our talent first strategy. At a time when top talent is in such high demand, we’re delighted to appoint these three ambitious and talented individuals who will really bolster some of our key practice areas.”

Chris McLeish, partner in the real estate team, commented: “The Scottish commercial real estate market is particularly buoyant and as investment in the sector is starting to pick up, I’m delighted to make the move to Morton Fraser to focus on the Scottish market and work with an impressive roster of clients.”

Andrew Walker, partner in the corporate team, added: “Morton Fraser’s corporate team is committed to helping Scottish businesses of all sizes grow, which is perfectly aligned with my expertise. Like Chris I’m looking forward to working with Morton Fraser’s clients, and with the wider corporate team, to help businesses navigate a challenging time.”

Mr Kerr has been with Morton Fraser for eight years, since joining as a trainee solicitor. He said: “I’m thrilled to become a partner at the firm where I have learned and developed for the past eight years. The mentorship and development opportunities I’ve had through the partners in the private client team and wider business have been invaluable.”

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Stronachs appoints chief operating officer

Stuart Murphy

Stronachs LLP has appointed Stuart Murphy as its first chief operating officer (COO).

Mr Murphy will be responsible for leading operational and financial management at the firm and will oversee Stronachs’ HR and IT teams across its Aberdeen and Inverness offices.

An economics graduate of Aberdeen University, Mr Murphy worked as a chartered accountant with KPMG and in corporate finance with Johnston Carmichael and was most recently finance director of the Westwood Global Energy group.

Managing partner Neil Forbes said: “We are delighted that Stuart has chosen to join us. We have been successful over the past 18 months in winning new clients and work and are looking to build on these successes.

“Stuart’s experience will be invaluable in supporting our team as we continue to focus on supporting our clients in a post-pandemic world. He brings invaluable management experience to the firm and will help enhance our business practices and operations to improve our team’s ability to deliver a first-class service to our clients.”

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SSBA to protest against Scottish government’s mishandling of legal aid

The Scottish Solicitors Bar Association has organised a protest outside the Scottish Parliament on the St Andrew’s Day public holiday on 6 December.

The occasion will mark a year since the Edinburgh and Glasgow Bar Associations took joint action and will coincide with a boycott of the holiday court this year by faculties across Scotland.

In a statement, the SSBA said: "For criminal legal aid practitioners, summary cases are the core of our workload. The fixed fee for that work was fixed in 1999. No consideration has been given to inflation to the extent that the fee is now significantly less in real terms than it was over twenty years ago. The criminal defence bar is unable to compete with the salaries offered by other public bodies. This has been exacerbated by the increase in pay for Procurator Fiscal Deputes and the current recruitment drive by the Crown Office and Procurator Fiscal Service. We continue to see younger members leave criminal defence work in significant numbers. This is an inevitable consequence of funding one part of the Justice system whilst neglecting another."

It added: "We invite you to join us at the Scottish Parliament at noon on the 6th December 2021."

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Festschrift for Lord Kerr of Tonaghmore out this week

A book in memory of the late Lord Kerr is being published this week.

The Judicial Mind: A Festschrift for Lord Kerr of Tonaghmore is a tribute to the highly respected Supreme Court justice, who died aged 72 a year ago today after having retired from court just two months earlier.

Brian Kerr was appointed as a judge of the High Court of Northern Ireland in 1993. He became the Lord Chief Justice of Northern Ireland in 2004 before being elevated to a peerage and appointed as the last lord of appeal in ordinary in June 2009.

Four months later, as Lord Kerr, he moved from the Appellate Committee of the House of Lords to the UK Supreme Court where, after exactly 11 years, he concluded his distinguished judicial career as the longest-serving justice to date. During his career he established an exceptional reputation for independence of thought, fairness and humanitarianism.

Lord Kerr's judicial mind has inspired and influenced a significant number of scholars and jurists throughout the UK and beyond. In this book, his unique brand of jurisprudence is examined alongside a catalogue of broader issues in which he displayed a keen interest during his lifetime. The volume includes topical contributions from a range of legal experts in Britain and Ireland.

Lord Kerr's particular interest in public law, human rights law, criminal law, and family law is featured prominently, but so too is the importance of his dissenting judgments, some influential jurisprudence of the Judicial Committee of the Privy Council (where he sat on many occasions), the legacy of his influence on the law and legal system of Northern Ireland and the significance of his place in the historical development of judicial roles and responsibilities more generally.

You can obtain a 20 per cent discount by entering "UG8" on the first page at the checkout here.

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Thorntons reappointed to university and college legal services framework

Ewan Miller

Thorntons has been re-appointed to the Advanced Procurement for Universities and Colleges (APUC) framework agreement for legal services.

The single lot framework covers five key areas of expertise – including commercial business, property & estates, HR, charity and international matters – and six firms have been appointed on an initial two year basis, with an option to extend for a further two years. Thorntons was also on the previous two frameworks, having delivered services via APUC since 2012.

Ewan Miller, partner and head of business law at Thorntons, said: “We look forward to continuing to deliver legal services to the universities, colleges and associated organisations that use the APUC framework.

“We have worked with APUC since 2012 and are very pleased not only to secure our position on the new framework, but also that our tender ranked top on technical expertise. This is testament to the skills, expertise and hard work of our team.

“The past 18 months have brought into sharp focus the importance of education providers being able to adapt to challenging issues in tight timescales, and the APUC framework model has enabled members to access quality legal services in a seamless manner.”

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Macdonald Henderson advises on MBO of Hardie Polymers backed by Nevis Capital

Macdonald Henderson has advised the shareholders of specialist polymer supply business Hardie Polymers on an MBO of the company, led by Izy Ferguson and Bartosz Komanski, and backed by the team at Nevis Capital.

Former owner, Fergus Hardie, remains as a shareholder and director but will take a step back from day to day operations. He will continue to use his industry knowledge and experience to support the team over the next few years.

Mr Hardie said: “Macdonald Henderson were outstanding from start to finish. David Beveridge and Laura McKnight guided us through the entire process with determined resolve and complete clarity. Offering reassurance when required, they were a genuine delight to work with. Not once was I in any doubt that I had the best possible advisors in my corner”.

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Gamekeeper fined for killing wild birds

A 53-year-old gamekeeper has been fined for killing an owl and a goshawk.

Peter Givens, a gamekeeper from Stow in Galashiels, was fined £300 after pleading guilty to a charge under Section 1(1)(a) of the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 at Selkirk Sheriff Court yesterday.

The court heard that on the morning of 23 September 2020 a multi crow cage trap was found on the edge of woodland at Cathpair Farm. The trap was found to contain two dead birds. The trap identification number attached to the cage wad registered to Mr Givens.

Trap licence conditions state that when in use, all traps must be checked at least once every day at intervals of no more than 24 hours.

These checks must be sufficient to determine whether there are any live or dead birds or other animals in the trap and that any dead or sickly bird must be removed immediately from the trap.

The birds had been dead for some considerable time.

Both birds would have died after becoming trapped in the cage trap and died of a combination of dehydration, starvation and exposure to the weather elements. This would have caused both birds considerable suffering.

Fiona Caldwell, procurator fiscal, wildlife and environment, said: “Peter Givens reckless actions and his failure to release these birds unharmed led to their suffering and deaths.

“Wild birds are given strict protection under our wildlife laws and COPFS will continue to prosecute such cases where appropriate to ensure that offenders are brought to justice.”

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Expanding access to residential rehabilitation in Scotland

Angela Constance

More than £11 million has been awarded to two drugs projects to enable them to expand their residential rehabilitation service as part of a commitment to increase the number of beds in Scotland by 50 per cent to 650 by 2026.

River Garden Auchincruive in South Ayrshire will use the funding over the next five years to increase capacity from seven to 56 residents and build a unit to meet the specific needs of women.

NHS Lothian will receive around £5 million to create capacity to support around 600 additional placements over five years at Lothian and Edinburgh Abstinence Programme (LEAP) and increase capacity at the Ritson detoxification clinic from eight beds to 12. This will enable the board to develop a pathway to rehab for those using complex polysubstances and illicit benzodiazepines.

Drugs policy minister Angela Constance said: “While there is much to be done to address our drug deaths crisis we are making changes to support people to access the treatment and recovery that is right for them.

“Our commitment to increase the number of publically funded places by 300 per cent and the number of beds by 50 per cent will provide options for those who can safely access and who want to access residential rehab.

“The funding announced for these latest projects comes from the additional £100 million we are investing in residential rehabilitation over the next five and we are determined every penny of that will make a difference.”

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Quote of the day

Mao died aspiring to exterminate Chinese culture. His Cultural Revolution alone killed as many as two million people, shattered traditions, uprooted spiritual and ethical values, and tore apart family ties and communal loyalties. People who experienced it seal off the memory, for the pain, worse than a bullet to the heart, overwhelms souls.

Ma Jian


民為貴,社稷次之,君為輕。

Most precious are the people; next come the spirits of land and grain; and last, the kings.

Mencius

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And finally… great leap backward

Censors in Hong Kong have removed an episode of The Simpsons from a streaming service as it refers to the Tiananmen Square Massacre and mocks Mao Zedong.

Disney+ launched in Hong Kong earlier this month, but viewers noticed the absence of episode 12 of season 16: Goo Goo Gai Pan.

Censorship laws introduced this summer forbid broadcasts that could breach China's national security law imposed on the city.

Streaming services are not caught by the rules but the authorities have warned that they fall under other laws.

In one scene, the Simpsons visit Tiananmen Square, where Chinese authorities cracked down on democracy protestors in 1989. There they see a sign that states: "On this site, in 1989, nothing happened". The official death toll from the massacre stands at around 300 but other estimates are much higher.

In another scene, Homer is seen standing by Chairman Mao's embalmed body. He refers to him as "a little angel that killed 50 million people".

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Global Language Services Ltd

Technology in the 21st Century is providing us with the means to communicate our thoughts and ideas across the planet in a way that would have been unthinkable, even 10 years ago.

However good the technology is, it cannot pick up the subtleties of a language, the culture that underpins it, or even the humour that oils many of our conversations.

For this reason there has always been a need for skilled interpreters and translators and probably always will. That’s where Global Language Services Ltd can help you.

Not only do we have the language service talent that you are likely to need, we also have a track record that spans Government, health, justice, commercial and private sector contracts.

So, whatever you want to achieve in a different language, we’re on your side from the word ‘go’.

We go out of our way to help with any translation and interpreting requirements and you can test that simply by picking up the phone and getting in touch. Calls are answered by trained operators with no call centres – just real people determined to help you achieve your language service requirements as quickly as possible.

If you’ve been searching for Professional Translation or reliable Interpreting Services at competitive prices, we like to think that Global will be your long-term partner after your first project with us.

With offices in Glasgow, Edinburgh, Inverness and Aberdeen we are committed to finding local interpreters and translators wherever possible. Our reach, however, goes much further than Scotland and we are happy to take translation projects from across the world.

Call Today on 0141 429 3429 to discuss your Project or email mail@globallanguageservices.co.uk

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Latest Traineeships

Trainee Solicitor (full-time) – MacPhee & Partners

Position: Trainee Solicitor (full-time)

Where: Fort William

Start Date: Immediate

Due to continued growth, we have an exciting opportunity for a trainee to join our busy Firm – working within our Family Law and/or Conveyancing Departments.

This is a fantastic opportunity for someone looking for a varied and challenging traineeship, whilst offering an excellent work/life balance and genuine prospects for long-term career advancement.

You will be an individual who not only has strong academic credentials, but is committed to immersing themselves in the local community within which we operate. You will be highly personable, with the ability to build relationships with both colleagues and clients. You will be a dedicated individual who thrives on a challenge. You will be proactive and resourceful, with a positive attitude and flexible approach.

We will provide thorough and high quality training within a supportive environment. We will encourage and assist you to reach your full potential.

Main tasks:-

  • Working alongside Partners/Associates/Paralegals
  • Assisting with busy and varied caseloads from start to finish
  • Providing support in drafting Court documents
  • Legal Research
  • Corresponding with clients and other solicitors
  • Appearing in the Sheriff Court (when appropriate)
  • Assisting in the promotion of the Firm/Department

Requirements:-

  • Degree in Law (Scottish)
  • Diploma in Professional Legal Practice
  • Confident in using technology
  • Experience working with Microsoft Office
  • Strong communication and organisational skills
  • Positive outlook and attitude

MacPhee & Partners is one of the largest legal and property firms in the Highlands and Islands, with modern and central offices in Fort William and Oban. We offer a wide range of legal and property services, combining traditional values with a forward-thinking and contemporary approach. Whilst the role is, principally, based in our Fort William office, there is a high degree of collaboration between both offices and regular travel to Oban will be required.

To apply for a traineeship with MacPhee & Partners, please forward a covering letter and CV to clairemacalpin@macphee.co.uk

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Latest Jobs

Senator of the College of Justice – Judicial Appointments Board for Scotland

The Judicial Appointments Board for Scotland (JABS) invites applications from suitably qualified individuals who wish to be considered for appointment to the office of the Senator of the College of Justice.

This is a great opportunity to contribute to justice in Scotland. It is expected that successful applicants will take up post in May 2022.

During the current appointment round further vacancies may arise and the board may be asked to make further recommendations as a result.

The Office of Senator of the College of Justice Role Profile, provided by the Judicial Office for Scotland, provides applicants with information about the role. An Outer House judge is paid £192,679 per annum.

We encourage diversity and particularly welcome applications from groups currently under-represented in the judiciary. The principles of fair and open competition will apply and recommendation for appointment will be made solely on merit.

Further information can be found on our website.

Applications must be submitted by noon on Wednesday 12 January 2022.

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Legal Members sought for Scotland’s First-tier Tribunal: Local Taxation Chamber – Judicial Appointments Board for Scotland

New Tribunal, New Opportunities to build your legal career

The Judicial Appointments Board for Scotland (JABS) invites applications from suitably qualified individuals who wish to be considered for appointment as a Legal Member of the new Chamber which, subject to regulations, will be called the Local Taxation Chamber of the First-tier Tribunal for Scotland.

The Board is seeking Legal Members across Scotland. The posts are paid on a daily fee basis of £387.21 with around 15 days per year commitment forecast.

This is an opportunity to play a key role in society supporting fair justice in Scotland.

The Chamber will consider appeals relating to a number of elements of local taxation including: property valuation, calculation of council tax liabilities and reductions thereof, and local taxation related civil penalty decisions.

We encourage diversity and welcome applications from people of all communities and backgrounds. Eligible practitioners from all sectors are welcome to apply. The principles of fair and open competition will apply and recommendation for appointment will be made solely on merit.

Further information can be found within the Guidance Note and Role Profile on https://www.judicialappointments.scot/vacancies .

Applications must be submitted by 12.00 (midday), Thursday 6 January 2022

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Board Vacancies – C~urb 6 Ltd

Link’s newest partner, C~urb 6 Ltd (trading as C~urb) will harness the group’s highly successful development, management and maintenance activities to deliver commercial success while creating sustainable communities.

C~urb’s ambitions are set within the context of Link’s vision ‘to be a leader in the ongoing development of sustainable communities across Scotland’.

Link is a group of seven award winning social enterprise companies which provide a wide range of services in 32 local authority areas in Scotland. We have over 15,000 customers – making us one of the largest social landlords in Scotland and have ambitious plans to make more of our services available to people who need them most.

We are looking to add to the range of skills and experience on the C~urb Board, which will provide high levels of governance and assurance to support a range of property related activities undertaken, including:

  • Delivering more than 3,000 new affordable homes across Scotland in the next 5 years, with new commercial ventures to further enhance communities. C~urb Property Development will focus on the delivery of net zero homes and emerging markets to extend its reach.
  • Maintaining and improving Link’s existing portfolio of affordable homes using an established in-house contracting team. Property Maintenance will deliver more than £15Million of investment in tenant’s homes this year alone, while continuing to keep homes safe and compliant through ongoing maintenance and servicing.
  • Providing a range of contracted services including Private Sector Leasing, Administration of Shared Equity schemes and managing Link’s Factoring and Mid Market Rent portfolios. C~urb Property Management is Scotland’s leading service supplier in temporary accommodation in partnership with The City of Edinburgh Council and the Scottish Government’s sole agent in managing the Open Market Shared Equity scheme and Aftersales service throughout Scotland.

What’s in it for you?

You’ll be presented with interesting, and at times complex issues to consider and your strategic advice will help navigate a path to growth and building success, while staying true to Link’s values.

You’ll be working with like-minded, experienced and committed colleagues to achieve our plans whilst keeping people at the heart of everything we do. As a board member of one of Scotland’s most successful social enterprises, you will gain a valuable insight of the Scottish property market and the services we provide to underpin high levels of customer satisfaction, while also delivering profit for reinvestment in Link’s social and sustainable aims.

Our board members volunteer their time to prepare for and attend regular meetings, training and information events. Reasonable expenses are reimbursed.    

Who are we looking for?

We want to work with people who share our determination to help others and support the development of our newest business and its sustainable goals. We are keen to hear from people who have professional experience of services like those we offer, or who can bring new thinking to our approach. It is vital our boards reflect our diverse population and we welcome interest from all sectors of our communities.

Areas of knowledge, skills and experience we are looking for include backgrounds in: 

  • Legal and Professional Construction/Property Investment/Management  
  • Property Development
  • Property Maintenance
  • Property Management


What are the next steps?

If you have any questions or you would like to discuss this opportunity, please contact a member of the Governance and Assurance Team on governance@linkhaltd.co.uk.

Closing date for Expressions of Interest is Wednesday 15 December 2021 at midnight.

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Property Solicitor – Harper Macleod LLP

Would you like to be part of one of the leading Public Sector and Housing teams in the country?

At Harper Macleod you’ll be part of a collective effort that is never satisfied: celebrating the successes, sharing the stresses and inspiring one another to always improve. You want to deliver extraordinary results for your clients. We want to deliver extraordinary opportunities for you, and encourage you to make a difference.

Your role

You will bring your property and conveyancing experience to an award-winning team that acts for a wide range of Scottish and UK public and third sector organisations, as well as those in the private sector who interact with the public sector. 

Your clients will include central government directorates, local authorities, non-departmental public bodies, regulatory bodies, housing associations and charities as well as private sector property developers and investors.  

A large part of the team's workload involves supporting these clients in relation to their diverse property requirements which include: development site acquisitions and assembly; commercial leases; deeds of conditions for mixed tenure developments; shared equity and shared ownership; large-scale security exercises; property due diligence reports; secured grant funding; property factoring; and ad hoc queries.

If you take pride in adding value to your clients, by providing a responsive expert technical service but also being able to provide services in a way which demonstrates understanding of the particular environment within which each client operates, you will fit right in.

You must have experience of conveyancing, be a self-starter capable of dealing with a wide variety of queries and be able to work confidently in a fast moving environment. Experience of working with public sector or social housing organisations is an advantage, but not essential.

Let your ambitions and ours go hand in hand

Harper Macleod’s culture is the sum of the actions of the people who make up our business – it’s built around taking calculated risks and pushing for innovative solutions.

You know that doing things the right way is always the best way – the right things for clients, colleagues and our communities. We will never compromise on this.

We also embrace flexibility – including when and where our people work.

We are a business that has been named Law Firm of the Year eight times and ranked in The Times Scotland Best Law Firms 2022. We offer a competitive salary and benefits package, an active colleague engagement & CSR programme and the opportunity to develop your career.

We believe the best is yet to come for Harper Macleod. If this sounds like the type of firm you’d like to be part of, maybe the best is yet to come for you?

To apply please send your CV to Kirsty Hunter, HR Manager.

kirsty.hunter@harpermacleod.co.uk

Harper Macleod LLP is committed to promoting equal opportunities and developing a diverse workforce.

www.harpermacleod.co.uk

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Senior Solicitor – Queens Lord & Lord Treasurer’s Remembrancer   

Profession

Legal

Location

Edinburgh

Victoria Quay

Although Edinburgh would be considered the home office, remote working will also be available and considered for day-to-day working.

Contract terms

12 month fixed-term contract with possibility of extension or permanency.

Full Time - there is scope for flexibility and part-time working will also be considered.

Salary

Starting salary would be £52,055 with the maximum salary on this scale being £61,617 subject to future COPFS pay awards.

Benefits:

We offer an excellent range of benefits which include:

  • Generous Civil Service Pension employer contribution, on average over 26% of your pay.
  • 25 days paid holiday + 11.5 public and privilege holidays (rising to 30 days paid holiday after 4 years).
  • Flexible working hours and family friendly approach to work.
  • Cycle to Work Scheme and Season Ticket Loans.
  • Employee Wellbeing Support with Mental Health First Aiders and access to an Employee Assistance Programme.

Closing Date

13 December 2021 at 5pm

About COPFS

The QLTR is a distinct civil law unit within the COPFS organisation.

The Crown Office and Procurator Fiscal Service is responsible for the investigation and prosecution of all crime in Scotland; the investigation of deaths which require further explanation; and the investigation of complaints against the police.

About the Role

Are you interested in gaining experience in one of Scotland’s most unique legal teams?

We are the department of the Queen’s and Lord Treasurer’s Remembrancer (QLTR), the Crown’s representative in Scotland who deals with ownerless property. We deal with the property and assets of dissolved companies, the property of individuals who die without heirs, and we advise the Treasure Trove Unit.

We deal with an interesting variety of work. For example, dealing with the Crown’s interest in land, buildings, moveables (e.g. whisky casks), abandoned funds and more – even some sheep! You can expect to deal with an interesting variety of work in a supportive environment.

We all work very collaboratively, and you will be working closely with our Head of Casework, and the rest of our compact team of 8, on our casework.

You will work as a senior solicitor in the team. You will have existing experience of dealing with legal property work and you will provide support to the junior solicitor in the team, and administrative staff.

Property law experience is essential and we will of course provide training. You will also be supported by our outsourced firm of solicitors in dealing with our work.

Applicants may come from a wide variety of legal backgrounds and experiences. For example, this post could suit a solicitor seeking to join the Civil Service to broaden their career experience, whilst utilising legal skills gained in their career to date.

Essential Criteria Required

The competencies included in the application pack form the key essential criteria for this role however candidates will also be expected to demonstrate:

  • Experience of working as a solicitor or advocate
  • Experience of property law and practice in Scotland (e.g. transactional or litigation work)
  • Strong written and verbal communication skills
  • Candidates must be a solicitor or advocate qualified to practice in Scotland and hold a valid unrestricted practicing certificate.

Contact Us

If you have any queries please email Recruitment@copfs.gov.uk.

Additional Information

Application packs are available to download from our website http://www.copfs.gov.uk/careers.

Please note that we do not accept CVs. 

Selection will be competency based.

We are an Equal Opportunities Employer.

Crown Office and Procurator Fiscal Service (COPFS) has ongoing measures and guidance in its response to Covid-19 (Coronavirus), and would like to advise applicants that a decision has been taken that all interviews and any other discussions in the process must be conducted in a virtual/remote setting.

In order to facilitate this way of working, COPFS asks all applicants to ensure that they have a suitable space to participate in the virtual interview and discussions as well as access to a personal device of choice by which you can undertake the interview/assessment if selected. Please ensure that your personal Wi-Fi/Broadband capacity will be sufficient to carry both audio and video.

Please note that COPFS has exemptions from the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act (1974).

COPFS must also adhere to strict Civil Service and Cabinet Office Baseline Personnel Security Standards regarding nationality, identity and history verification rules.

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Conveyancing Solicitor – Stewart Watt & Co.

We are a small family run practice who deal primarily in Property & Private Client work with offices in Edinburgh and West Calder.

We are looking to hire an experienced Conveyancing Solicitor to look after all our Property clients. The successful candidate will be adept in all types of domestic conveyancing matters, have excellent interpersonal skills and commercial awareness. Some commercial property experience would be beneficial but not essential.

Very much a career move rather than just a job, there will be significant opportunity for advancement for the right candidate. The role offers excellent prospects for personal & business development, as well as, growing your own client base. You will have a significant degree of autonomy and expected to fully manage your own case load and help develop the Firm’s property services.

We offer a very friendly, relaxed, working environment with a competitive salary and holiday package. Whilst the candidate will be required to attend both our offices, we would consider flexible and/or hybrid working.

To apply, please send your CV and covering letter, including your preferred working pattern and salary expectations to: zara@stewartwatt.co.uk

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Senior Manager (Legal Services) – North Ayrshire Council

LOCATION: Cunninghame House, Friars Croft, Irvine, KA12 8EE

SALARY: £57,988.98 - £61,515.09 per year

CONTRACT TYPE: Permanent

POSITION TYPE: Full Time

HOURS: 35 hours per week

WORK FROM HOME: Hybrid

During Covid-19, we are taking the opportunity to work in different ways and this includes how we continue to undertake our interviews. We are using Microsoft Teams to progress with interviews virtually and all you need is a device with a camera and access to the internet. We will provide guidance and instructions on how to use this method if your interview is being held virtually.

The Council is looking to appoint a Senior Manager to lead the Legal and Licensing Service and ensure delivery of an efficient and responsive service focussed on achieving the Council’s priorities, serving its communities and fulfilling its statutory obligations. We are looking for someone to lead, motivate and inspire the teams within Legal and Licensing to deliver innovative service for the future.

For more details see the attached Role Profile below.

Before you apply, find out a little bit about us and why we are a Great Place to Work.

Staff Values & Behaviours

North Ayrshire Council uses behavioural based approach throughout the recruitment process. Our staff values of Focus, Passion & Inspiration will be explored for this vacancy.

Further information on our Staff Values how to complete behaviour based application form questions is available on the Council’s website.

Additional Information

For your information if this post requires references you will be notified of further details if you are successful in gaining an interview. Not providing relevant references when requested may delay the outcome of the interview process.

Please note that this post is politically restricted, requires a Register of Interest and a Standard Disclosure Check.

Standard Disclosure

Preferred candidates will be required to undergo a Standard Disclosure check, prior to a formal offer of employment being made by North Ayrshire Council. Please note: Successful candidates will be expected to meet the cost of the Standard Disclosure Check of £25 which will be deducted from your wages following the commencement of employment. For further information on the Disclosure Scheme please visit https://www.mygov.scot/organisations/disclosure-scotland/. For further details on North Ayrshire Council’s policy please visit http://www.north-ayrshire.gov.uk/resident/jobs-and-training/pre-employment-checks.aspx.

Our Workstyles

As an employer of choice, North Ayrshire Council has identified four different Workstyles. Each post in the council has been allocated one of these styles:

Agile – 100% of time spent working agile (flexibly) and interacting with others. Able to work at home, office or multiple locations. May be required to attend office on set days/rota basis as the role requires.

This post has been allocated the workstyle: Agile

More information on our workstyles can be found in our HR Guide: Workstyles. If you have any questions on the allocated Workstyle for this post, please ask at interview.

Closing date: 7 December 2021.

https://www.myjobscotland.gov.uk/councils/north-ayrshire-council/jobs/senior-manager-legal-services-247282

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Commercial Life Sciences Associate – CMS

Excellent opportunity for a commercial life sciences lawyer to join our Tier 1 ranked practice.

About the Role

Our Life Sciences/TMT groups have an opportunity for an industry-focused commercial lawyer to join our prestigious technology team and top-ranked sector group of over 80 life sciences specialists in the UK and 300 globally.  

The technology team operates as a seamless unit between the firm's offices in London, Bristol, Sheffield, Edinburgh and Glasgow, advising on a broad range of matters for clients ranging from large blue chip organisations to smaller commercial entities (including start ups and spin outs, universities and charities). This role will be based in Scotland and will be working primarily with the friendly and collaborative Scottish based lifesciences team.

The technology team advises across a number of sectors and this lawyer’s focus would be life sciences, advising clients at every stage of the product life cycle, from intellectual property issues, collaboration arrangements, commercialisation and supply chain and life cycle management. 

About You

- Knowledge of, and/or experience in, the life sciences sector
- Knowledge of IP, IT, technology and data protection issues in addition to having developed strong general commercial expertise
- Understanding of the life sciences regulatory regime would be helpful but is not essential
- Experience and confidence in dealing directly with clients

To apply, please follow the link - Commercial Life Sciences Associate - Scotland - CMS Careers (cms-cmno.com)

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Private Client Solicitor – Fergusson Law

Do you hate time recording?  

Do you feel embarrassed when clients query how their bills were calculated?

Would you like to work in a firm where:-

-       All work is carried out at a fixed price, agreed in advance

-       You look after your own clients and get lots of client contact

-       You are not expected to work outside normal hours

-       Your ideas and suggestions are taken seriously

Fergusson Law has a vacancy for a private client solicitor, primarily to deal with Wills, Powers of Attorney and deceased’s estates. We are looking for someone with an aptitude for numbers and basic knowledge of IHT, CGT and IT principles relevant to private client work, but we are willing to provide training to the right candidate.

Our business is driven by customer service, not by profit.  We find profit follows from satisfied clients, and a large part of our work comes from onward referrals.

We are a small firm, with a friendly, flexible approach in the office, and have a blend of office/home working, where everyone can choose to work from home up to two days a week.

Our light, airy ground floor office is in the Edinburgh New Town, handy for public transport and shops.   

Interested? Give Janice Nisbet, Principal,  a call on 0131 556 4044 [Key 1] for an informal chat.

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Litigation Assistant, Liability – Kennedys

Job Title   Litigation Assistant, Liability
 
Ref No.   58272
 
Work Type   Full Time - Permanent
 
Region   EMEA
 
Office   Edinburgh
 
Role   Lawyer/Fee Earner
 
Salary   Competitive
 
 
Kennedys is looking for a Litigation Assistant to join our team based in either our Edinburgh or Glasgow offices. The team is headed up by Partners Rory Jackson and Peter Demick, both recently named by Legal 500 as recommend lawyers for defendant personal injury in Scotland.

This is an exciting opportunity to join our highly regarded firm and be part of our growth. Our team in Scotland has expanded significantly since Rory joined Kennedys in 2015 and Peter in 2017, we are now over 25 strong with further growth planned.

We are interested in speaking to candidates who are looking for an opportunity to learn and progress in the Liability team. We will consider candidates who have completed an Accredited Paralegal qualification or who have an interest in completing an Accredited Paralegal qualification.

If you are interested in working in a supportive environment with ambitious colleagues we would love to hear from you.

Team

KennedysScotland provides a comprehensive service to insurers, ranging from friendly, off the record advice to comprehensive legal advice on the most complex of claims.Instructed by a mix of insurer and corporate clients, the team receive a steady flow of claims related to employer, public and occupier liability, motor, catastrophic injury, healthcare, fraud, abuse, product liability and occupational disease.The practice is led by the "extremely professional, approachable and knowledgeable"Rory Jackson (Legal 500 UK 2022).

Clients

  • Insurers
  • Corporates
  • Professionals

Cases

  • All aspects of complex and high value professional liability matters.
  • Advising on insurance coverage and policy response.
  • Both pre-litigation and litigated matters. Promoting early resolution of claims and alternative dispute resolution methods without recourse to litigation.

Required experience

  • Strong Academics.
  • Has either completed or has an interest in completing an Accredited Paralegal Qualification
  • Flexible attitude towards working practices and ability to adapt style as required.
  • Confident in their own abilities and in their approach.
  • Team player
  • To be approachable and responsive to both colleagues and clients
  • To be accountable and straightforward
  • To be professional and courteous in all dealings
  • Self-motivated and enthusiastic.

About Kennedys

Kennedys is a global law firm with expertise in dispute resolution and advisory services. With over 2,300 people worldwide across 43 offices in the UK, Europe, Middle East, Asia Pacific and America we have some of the most respected legal minds in their field.

Our lawyers handle both contentious and non-contentious matters, and provide a range of specialist legal services, for many industry sectors but we have particular expertise in litigation and dispute resolution, especially in defending insurance and liability claims.

We're a fresh-thinking firm, and we're not afraid to bring challenging new perspectives to the table way beyond the traditional realm of legal services. We empower our clients with a diverse range of ideas, tools and technology to make their lives easier, as well as delivering exceptional results, every time.

What do we have to offer?

We welcome high-performing lawyers, business services professionals, secretaries, graduates and apprentices to join our rapidly expanding global firm. Whatever your role at Kennedys, you'll be involved in exciting and stimulating work, where your input will make a difference.

Our culture and values form a big part of who we are and we take them seriously. We make a difference by being approachable,straightforward, supportive and distinctive. Our values are at the core of who we are and what make us a great firm to work with and for.

We develop careers in an innovative and collaborative global environment, with our values at the core. We believe that supporting individual growth and development puts us in the best position to attract and retain talented individuals. Regardless of role or level, everyone has access to virtual learning to help you develop your skills, wherever you are in the world. A variety of other exciting opportunities are available including secondments to clients and our global offices as well as a comprehensive benefits package (details are available upon request).

We've created a culture based on client service, professional excellence, hard work and trust. We deeply value the relationships we build with our clients and we know that they value our warm, friendly human approach. We are here to provide answers, recommendations, strategy and tactics.

Kennedys is an equal opportunities employer and is committed to ensuring our recruitment processes are as inclusive as possible. We expect all employees to be aware of and comply with all relevant policies and procedures within their jurisdiction, including those relating to Information Security, Data Protection and Quality Management, refer any breach promptly to Risk & Compliance and to complete all mandatory training when requested.

*Where a level of experience is indicated, this is a guideline only and represents the amount of time we would usually expect a candidate to accumulate the requisite level of experience. This does not preclude applications from candidates with more or less experience.

Apply here

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Associate/Senior Associate, Professional Liability, 2+ years' experience – Kennedys

Associate/Senior Associate, Professional Liability, 2+ years' experience
 
Ref No.   57782
 
Work Type   Full Time - Permanent
 
Region   EMEA
 
Office   Edinburgh
 
Role   Lawyer/Fee Earner
 
Salary   Competitive
 
 
Kennedys is looking for an Associate/ Senior Associate to join our team based in either our Edinburgh or Glasgow offices. The team is headed up by Partners Rory Jackson and Peter Demick, both recently named by Legal 500 as recommend lawyers for defendant personal injury in Scotland.

This is an exciting opportunity to join our highly regarded firm and be part of our growth. Our team in Scotland has expanded significantly since Rory joined Kennedys in 2015 and Peter in 2017, we are now over 25 strong with further growth planned.

We are interested in speaking to candidates with broad professional liability experience and experience within product liability, construction disputes, insurance litigation and commercial disputes would be beneficial, but not essential.

If you are interested in working in a supportive environment with ambitious colleagues we would love to hear from you.

Team

KennedysScotland provides a comprehensive service to insurers, ranging from friendly, off the record advice to comprehensive legal advice on the most complex of claims.Instructed by a mix of insurer and corporate clients, the team receive a steady flow of claims related to employer, public and occupier liability, motor, catastrophic injury, healthcare, fraud, abuse, product liability and occupational disease.The practice is led by the "extremely professional, approachable and knowledgeable"Rory Jackson (Legal 500 UK 2022).

Clients

  • Insurers
  • Corporates
  • Professionals

Cases

  • All aspects of complex and high value professional liability matters
  • Advising on insurance coverage and policy response
  • Both pre-litigation and litigated matters. Promoting early resolution of claims and alternative dispute resolution methods without recourse to litigation.

Required experience

  • 2+ years' experience as a Scottish Qualified Solicitor*
  • Strong Academics (2.1 or higher degree) or equivalent.
  • Experience of Sheriff Court and Court of Session.
  • Experience of assisting on large cases in a team environment
  • Previous client contact and attendance at business development events is ideal.

About Kennedys

Kennedys is a global law firm with expertise in dispute resolution and advisory services. With over 2,300 people worldwide across 43 offices in the UK, Europe, Middle East, Asia Pacific and America we have some of the most respected legal minds in their field.

Our lawyers handle both contentious and non-contentious matters, and provide a range of specialist legal services, for many industry sectors but we have particular expertise in litigation and dispute resolution, especially in defending insurance and liability claims.

We're a fresh-thinking firm, and we're not afraid to bring challenging new perspectives to the table way beyond the traditional realm of legal services. We empower our clients with a diverse range of ideas, tools and technology to make their lives easier, as well as delivering exceptional results, every time.

What do we have to offer?

We welcome high-performing lawyers, business services professionals, secretaries, graduates and apprentices to join our rapidly expanding global firm. Whatever your role at Kennedys, you'll be involved in exciting and stimulating work, where your input will make a difference.

Our culture and values form a big part of who we are and we take them seriously. We make a difference by being approachable,straightforward, supportive and distinctive. Our values are at the core of who we are and what make us a great firm to work with and for.

We develop careers in an innovative and collaborative global environment, with our values at the core. We believe that supporting individual growth and development puts us in the best position to attract and retain talented individuals. Regardless of role or level, everyone has access to virtual learning to help you develop your skills, wherever you are in the world. A variety of other exciting opportunities are available including secondments to clients and our global offices as well as a comprehensive benefits package (details are available upon request).

We've created a culture based on client service, professional excellence, hard work and trust. We deeply value the relationships we build with our clients and we know that they value our warm, friendly human approach. We are here to provide answers, recommendations, strategy and tactics.

Kennedys is an equal opportunities employer and is committed to ensuring our recruitment processes are as inclusive as possible. We expect all employees to be aware of and comply with all relevant policies and procedures within their jurisdiction, including those relating to Information Security, Data Protection and Quality Management, refer any breach promptly to Risk & Compliance and to complete all mandatory training when requested.

*Where a level of experience is indicated, this is a guideline only and represents the amount of time we would usually expect a candidate to accumulate the requisite level of experience. This does not preclude applications from candidates with more or less experience.

Apply here

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Senior Solicitor (Commercial) – City of Edinburgh Council

Senior Solicitor (Commercial)

Waverley Court, Edinburgh EH8 8BG

Salary: £44,934 to £53,781

Hours: 36 per week

You will ideally have 4+ years of post-qualified experience in commercial law and be able to demonstrate a sound understanding of a wide range of complex commercial law matters.

This will include the provision of complex advisory work to senior management, ideally with a wide range of experience of major projects, complex commercial contracts (e.g. development agreements), procurement, state aid/state subsidy, public law, data protection, freedom of information, governance, RIPSA, corporate law, construction law and housing law. Applicants will be expected to draw upon professional and commercial acumen to provide tailored legal and business solutions.

The applicant should have a positive attitude, a willingness to learn and the desire and ability to work collectively and become a key team member. The workload will be varied, challenging and interesting. You will be supported in a collegiate environment and encouraged to develop a full range of legal and other skills to advance your career with us.

The Commercial Law team currently consists of the Principal Solicitor, one Senior Solicitor, a Solicitor and a Trainee Solicitor.

The team provides critical advice to the organisation across a wide range of matters. The Council has 19,000 employees and has exciting and ambitious projects to ensure that Edinburgh is a forward-looking and sustainable capital city. You will have a key role to play in achieving the Council’s objectives.

The position advertised is a full-time position, working 36 hours per week. The position provides excellent benefits including access to the relevant local government pension scheme.

A standard Disclosure Scotland check will be required for the successful candidate, prior to commencement of the post.

We are committed to creating a workplace culture where all our people feel valued, included and able to be their best at work, and we recognise the benefits that a diverse workforce with different values, beliefs, experience, and backgrounds brings to us as an organisation.

Applications can be submitted online on the myjobscotland website at the following link:

Senior Solicitor (Commercial) - | City of Edinburgh Council | myjobscotland

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Solicitor (Employment) – City of Edinburgh Council

Waverley Court, Edinburgh EH8 8BG

Salary: £37,589 - £44,934

Hours: 36 per week

You will ideally have 1 – 2 years of post-qualified experience in employment law and be able to demonstrate a sound understanding of a wide range of employment law matters.

This will include the provision of complex advisory work to HR professionals and management, ideally with some experience of contentious employment tribunal work and advocacy. Applicants will be expected to draw upon professional and commercial acumen to provide tailored legal and business solutions.

The applicant should have a positive attitude, a willingness to learn and the desire and ability to work collectively and become a key team member. The workload will be varied, challenging and interesting. You will be supported in a collegiate environment and encouraged to develop a full range of legal and other skills to advance your career with us.

The Employment team currently consists of the Principal Solicitor and four Senior Solicitors.

The team provides critical advice to the organisation across a wide range of matters. The Council has 19,000 employees and has exciting and ambitious projects to ensure that Edinburgh is a forward-looking and sustainable capital city. You will have a key role to play in achieving the Council’s objectives.

The position advertised is a full-time position, working 36 hours per week. The position provides excellent benefits including access to the relevant local government pension scheme.

Our salary range typically reflects the initial starting salary and annually increases until it reaches the top of the range.  For roles in grade 5 or above, annual increments in our contribution zones are dependent on achieving agreed performance goals.

A standard Disclosure Scotland check will be required for the successful candidate, prior to commencement of the post.

We are committed to creating a workplace culture where all our people feel valued, included and able to be their best at work, and we recognise the benefits that a diverse workforce with different values, beliefs, experience, and backgrounds brings to us as an organisation.

Applications can be submitted online on the myjobscotland website at the following link:

Solicitor (Employment) - | City of Edinburgh Council | myjobscotland

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Full Time Solicitor – Dundee Law Centre

Dundee Law Centre are ardent promoters of access to justice across the city. Our aim is to ensure everyone in Dundee facing social welfare challenges and inequality understands their legal rights and has access to professional legal services.

Alongside our legal aid casework, the Law Centre is part funded by Dundee City Council to provide a range of   community outreach, legal advice, and representation services. Dundee Community Law Limited is a Limited Liability Partnership and a Practice Unit licensed by the Law Society of Scotland. Our solicitors are regulated by the Law Society of Scotland, and we provide legal services to the charity Dundee Law Centre.

We strive to tackle poverty and help people to exercise their legal rights. We are dedicated to improving the quality of life for people by representation through the legal process. Our solicitors work alongside community-based advice agencies, providing them with legal support to help their clients.

Our services are very much in demand, and we are expanding our team as a result. This solicitor will be responsible for taking on and managing a varied caseload to meet the Law Centre’s contractual and performance targets. We are particularly looking for solicitors who are interested in social welfare law and have experience of working with vulnerable clients. However, this role would suit candidates who are seeking a change in direction, and who what to make a real difference by using their legal knowledge and experience. Candidates must also be able to maintain excellent working relationships with a dedicated support administrative team.

Skills Required:

You will have the ability, and confidence to manage a caseload mainly comprising of housing law (repossession, homelessness, eviction, domestic abuse in housing – not criminal work - and disrepair), welfare benefits and debt work. Previous experience of social welfare law is preferred but not necessary as full training can be provided. A desire to make a difference and a passion for helping people to understand their legal rights is vital in this role. The successful candidate will be working with other experienced solicitors who are keen to support their new colleague.

You will be experienced in Scottish Legal Aid and its required quality assurance framework.

You will understand the needs of vulnerable and complex clients and be able to communicate legal concepts clearly and in plain English.

You will be a confident court practitioner with excellent technical skills, and the ability to focus these where you can make the biggest difference. This is a varied and exciting opportunity to work with a dedicated team and do something that really matters.

You will have a minimum of 2 years post qualifying experience and a full current practicing certificate from the Law Society of Scotland. The ability to drive and having your own car will be useful in the role although not essential.

Benefits:

33 days to include 8 days fixed public holidays

Company Pension

Salary: £33,000 annual

Dundee Law Centre is committed to offering equal opportunities to all persons and that all employees have a duty to promote and comply with our equal opportunities policy.

Send Cover letter and CV to recruitsol@dundeelaw.org

Applications close: 20 December 2021

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Rural solicitor — Inverness – Ledingham Chalmers

Described in the latest Legal 500 rankings as approachable, exceptional, practical and pragmatic, our rural team works across the farming, forestry, fisheries and food sectors, with a focus on resilience and building a sustainable future.

This role, based in our Inverness office, will involve working on purchases and sale of rural property as well as security work, agricultural tenancy work, crofting and advising farming businesses.

If successful, you'll have your own busy caseload and you'll also work alongside partners in large and complex transactions.

It's likely our ideal candidate will have been qualified for at least two to five years, but we're looking for someone who's the right fit for our team so will consider applicants with different levels of experience.

Ideally too you'd have prior experience of rural property work, but we'd also welcome applications from people who have a background in commercial and residential property.

You'll also be able to demonstrate —

  • Excellent attention to detail
  • Good communication, time management and organisational skills
  • Ability to work under your own initiative
  • A first-rate client track record

There are excellent prospects for personal development, as well for business development and growing your own client base. The role also comes with a competitive remuneration and holiday package.

While based in Inverness, we'd consider candidates who could spend time working from any of our offices, including our Aberdeen headquarters. We would also welcome applications for hybrid working.

Interested?

Please send your CV with a covering letter to Nan McPherson, human resources advisor, by Friday, 17 December.

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Solicitor – SPT

Job Ref:                          LS02

 

Grade:                            E/F

 

Salary:                           £39,216 - £50,704 per annum

                                     (Salary placement dependent upon experience)                                              

                                   

Location:                      Glasgow

 

About SPT

Strathclyde Partnership for Transport (SPT) is the largest of Scotland’s seven regional transport partnerships. We run the Glasgow Subway, a host of specialist bus services and are responsible for delivering better public transport for all.

About the Role

We have an exciting opportunity for a second qualified Solicitor to join our busy Legal and Property Services team. From the outset, you will have contact with all departments including senior managers, the Strategy Team and external stakeholders and shall contribute to the delivery of an effective and efficient legal service across the organisation.

You will be responsible for drafting and advising on commercial contracts including the NEC suite, commercial property transactions, providing support on Data Protection and Freedom of Information matters, liaising with our insurers on claims and litigation, advising on all matters relating to public administration and liaising with external advisers as required. Opportunities may also arise to draft and advise on information technology and intellectual property matters, including copyright and patents and to participate in advising on large and complex infrastructure projects,

About You

The successful candidate will be a qualified Solicitor with a current unrestricted practicing certificate.   You will be an exceptional legal adviser with a collaborative and imaginative approach to problem solving, combined with a very strong customer service ethic.   You will be an excellent communicator, able to explain both orally and in writing, complex concepts clearly, and able to tailor your legal advice to clients with different needs and experience.

An adaptable and flexible individual, able to deal with shifting priorities and willing to build new experience in a wide variety of areas of law by picking up new matters out-with your own sphere of experience.

A team player who must be able to build trust and understanding quickly and have a track record of delivering on time, every time. We serve the client departments, and they rely on us to deliver timely, commercially-focused advice and assistance, against the background of our obligations and responsibilities as a public sector body.

What we can offer you…

  • Commitment to your ongoing learning and development to support career progression
  • 32 days Annual and Public Holiday Entitlement
  • Membership of the Local Government Pension Scheme – SPT contribute 19.3% of your annualised pay
  • Group Life Assurance Cover
  • Employee Travel Pass Scheme – a Subway Smartcard to travel on the Glasgow Subway for free
  • Discounted Season Rail Tickets – maximum of £300 towards the cost of an annual rail ticket
  • Cycle to Work Scheme, Flexible Working Opportunities, Childcare Vouchers, Employee Assistance Programme, Long Service Awards, Credit Union

Full time hours will be 35 hours per week Monday to Friday. Applications for part time or flexible working will be considered. You may though be required to undertake work out-with contracted hours to meet the responsibilities of the post.

You will be based at 131 St Vincent Street, Glasgow.

How to Apply?

To apply, please go to SPT careers at https://www.spt.co.uk/spt-across-the-region/about-spt/our-team/careers/current-vacancies/

Closing date for applications will be midnight on Sunday 5 December 2021.   

SPT is an Equal Opportunities company welcoming applications from a diverse background.   If you’ve got the right skills for the job we want to hear from you.   SPT encourage applications from the right candidates regardless of age, disability, gender identity, sexual orientation, religion, belief or race.

For applicants with special requirements, or if you have any questions please email recruitment@spt.co.uk  quoting the above reference.

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Executry Paralegal – Balfour and Manson

We currently have a vacancy for a paralegal to join our friendly executry team.

The ideal candidate will have a positive, enthusiastic approach and already be an experienced executry paralegal.

You will have a significant degree of autonomy as well as your own case load. The main duties of the post will be to deal with all aspects of executry administration to include investigating the extent of the estate, preparing the Confirmation application and Inheritance Tax return, preparing the executry account and dealing with related tax matters. These duties will be carried out under the supervision of one of our partners.

If you are interested in this vacancy, please send a covering letter and a copy of your CV to HR Director, Margaret Peet (margaret.peet@balfour-manson.co.uk) by the closing date of Friday 3 December 2021.

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Legal Assistant – Fife Law Centre

Fife Law Centre is seeking to recruit a Legal Assistant with previous experience in a legal environment, to work as part of a small team focused on improving the lives of people across Fife.

Fife Law Centre was established in 2009 to provide services to those in the community who are otherwise unable to access legal support and advice. We are a small team of solicitors and administrative support.

The main areas of work for the Legal Assistant will involve receiving enquiries and referrals from individuals and partner organisations, identifying whether the nature of the enquiry is one which Fife Law Centre can deal with, accurately recording information, assessing content, reporting with clarity, and maintaining proper records.

While initially the work will be as part of the office based team (as determined by government restrictions), it is anticipated this role will extend to services at outreach hubs across Fife.

The successful applicant must be able to demonstrate clear and sensitive communication skills, objective analysis, judgement and recording skills.

Proficiency in Word and Excel Systems will be essential.

Salary £20,000 (under review)

Job description

Applications using the form provided should be submitted to anne.macintyre@fifelc.co.uk – by 5pm on Thursday 2 December. All applications will be acknowledged.

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Conveyancing Assistant Solicitor – Duffy Toshner & Company

Well established firm in Cambuslang seeks an Assistant Solicitor experienced in both Residential and Commercial Conveyancing. (Minimum 2 + years qualified).

The successful candidate should be highly organised with the ability to cope with multiple responsibilities within tight timescales and possess excellent written and verbal communication skills.

Competitive salary and opportunity for advancement.

To apply please send your CV and covering letter to pauline@duffytoshner.co.uk

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Grade 7 Employment Lawyers – Government Legal Department

Grade 7 Employment Lawyers
Government Legal Department
Salary: £50,500 - £61,000 (London) Or £48,985 - £58,000 (National)
Location: London, Bristol or Leeds

Use your talent to shape the UK’s future

Who we are

The Government Legal Department (GLD) is the largest provider of legal services across government. We work with all the main Whitehall Departments and our work touches on nearly all aspects of public life, from roads and rivers to health and human rights.

The department has more than 14 client-facing advisory teams who provide legal advice on the development, design and implementation of government policies and decisions, draft secondary legislation, and work with Parliamentary Counsel on primary legislation.  Our expert service groups for Litigation, Employment and Commercial Law provide specialist legal services to a wide range of government departments and public bodies.

GLD’s Employment Group provides employment litigation and advisory services to central government, with a client base of over 55 government departments and other public bodies.

We’re recruiting up to 12 Employment Lawyers where you’ll have the opportunity to work on high-profile litigation, to advise at the heart of government on effective employment practice and to join a Division which has a supportive and collaborative culture, putting diversity and inclusion at the heart of all it does.

The role

GLD’s Employment Group is one of the largest employment law teams in the UK, comprising over 170 lawyers and administrators, currently divided between 8 teams. The teams’ work falls into the following main areas:

  • HR advice and litigation including on individual cases, on collective and strategic HR issues such as departmental restructuring and on major departmental policy issues such as departmental and agency reforms
  • Conduct of large scale multi-party litigation including that involving pensions and equal pay.4
  • Advice to Cabinet Office and HM Treasury on overarching Civil Service employment issues.
  • Transactional employment work (insourcing and outsourcing contracts involving staff transfers)

The majority of our litigation work is in the Employment Tribunal although we also handle appeals to the Employment Appeal Tribunal, the Court of Appeal, the Supreme Court and relevant claims in the High Court.

The Employment Group is often involved in the leading employment law cases of the day.

Recent examples in the Supreme Court include ‘Gilham v Ministry of Justice’ on whistleblowing protections and O’Brien v Ministry of Justice on part time workers discrimination and in the Court of Appeal McCloud v Ministry of Justice on age discrimination, McNeil v HMRC on equal pay and Heskett v Secretary of State for Justice on indirect discrimination.

Our people are supported by excellent knowledge management, a rich training programme and a supportive culture of leadership and management at all levels of the organisation.

About you

A qualified Solicitor, Barrister or Chartered Legal Executive with license to practice in England and Wales, you’ll have a sound understanding of public law, reliable legal judgement and a sound appreciation of legal risk. You will be able to think strategically and creatively, see legal issues in their wider context and produce timely and fit for purpose advice. As a strong communicator, you’ll be able to make effective decisions, manage conflicting pressures and work to challenging deadlines. Ideally you will have experience of working on an Inquiry or similar inquisitorial process, though this is not essential for the role provided you have a good understanding of the role of lawyers in government.

This role requires candidates to obtain an SC clearance before joining. You must have lived in the UK continuously for the last 5 years in order to clear the SC level checks, therefore, applications from candidates who haven’t lived in the UK continuously for that period will not be considered.

Recruitment pack

For more information or to apply, click the 'APPLY' button.

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Governance & Assurance Manager – Fixed Term – 2 Years – Dumfries and Galloway Council

Dumfries

£65,190 - £70,182 per year

Exciting and unique opportunity to join Dumfries and Galloway Council’s Governance & Assurance Team.

This new high profile role has strategic responsibility and will assist the Head of Governance and Assurance to lead and manage a range of services to provide assurance of high standards of governance, integrity and protection.

The key focus of the role will be to assist the Head of Governance and Assurance with the implementation of the actions contained in the Review of Financial Procedures and Procurement Standing Orders, including but not limited to Governance related matters contained within the action plan (eg the Review of The Scheme of Delegations, Risk Management, Annual Governance Statement, Key Decisions).

You will be joining at a time of transformational change in our Council and region. This role provides the opportunity for you to support the achievement of Council Priorities and provide leadership, vision and strategic direction about governance and compliance across the organisation.

We are looking for an experienced, forward-thinking and inspiring leader. You will have a Scots Law legal qualification and current Law Society of Scotland Practising Certificate. You will be politically astute and have a strong track record of managing, developing and improving services; shaping and delivering strategic policies; collaborative working; communicating and negotiating effectively; and robust budget management. This post may be suitable for secondment.

For an informal discussion, contact Vlad Valiente, Head of Governance and Assurance t: 07425 615737, or Human Resources, t: 030 33 33 3003, e: HR@dumgal.gov.uk

For further information and to apply, please visit:

Governance and Assurance Manager - | Dumfries & Galloway Council | myjobscotland

Closing Date: 2 December 2021

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Full/Part time - Experienced Family Solicitor – Kee Solicitors

We are a young and growing firm that specialise in family law and have an exciting opportunity for a Solicitor of at least 2 years' PQE to join our team in Stepps, Glasgow. This role will involve a broad caseload of private family law clients.

The successful candidate will have significant experience in family/civil law, including within the Courts. They will manage their own case load and assist generally across the firm. Requires the ability and experience to deal with complex family law matters whilst providing excellent client service. The candidate must be a team player as the firm is very team focused and have the drive and ambition to grow with the firm.

Benefits

  • Competitive Salary
  • Private Medical Insurance
  • Increased employer pension contribution
  • Flexible working
  • Bannatynes Gym membership (On Site)
  • Friendly, work/life balanced environment

Please enquire in confidence by email to jonathan@keesolicitors.co.uk.

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Paralegal – Digby Brown Solicitors

Full-time, Permanent

Ayr (With Degree of Flexibility - Details Below)

Digby Brown has been one of the success stories of the Scottish legal sector in the past decade – we now operate in seven regional areas across Scotland, having tripled in size in the last nine years.

We are the only firm top ranked by Chambers and Legal 500 for personal injury work, which has been the case now for 16 years running. The Firm has also been voted Scottish Law Firm of the Year in three out of the last six years.

We have developed a reputation as a formidable court firm, focused on quality service for our clients and expertise in our people. We work in a distinctive way – what we do works and makes a difference in people’s lives.

Digby Brown is committed to being an employer of choice, which is evidenced by our competitive salary and benefits package, as well as the opportunities we provide for further development.

To support the quality of service we provide to our clients, and our people’s personal development, we have innovated together and built a brand new, cutting edge, digital client case management system. We have focused on providing modern digital solutions and unique case workflow to our employees and we will continue to adapt this technology in line with our firm values.

In addition, the events of the past year surrounding the Coronavirus pandemic have enabled us to implement a more flexible working approach moving forward, which we are calling Hybrid Working. This will enable our people to split their working time between their homes and the office, on a pre-agreed number of days per week, in line with the needs of their department.

Due to ongoing growth within the business, an opportunity has arisen for a client-focused individual to join our Network team in the Ayr office.

Ideally, you will be a paralegal, with some experience in civil litigation. Alternatively, you may have had commercial training/experience and be seeking an opportunity to move to an area of law where you can make a difference to clients and know that you are doing work that really matters.

The role is based in Ayr, but the successful candidate will only be expected to attend the office one day per week for team meetings and collaboration purposes, should they be based out with the local area. They could then undertake the remainder of their working days, split between home and another of our sites that is closer to them.

The successful candidate will have a keen eye for detail, the ability to act on their own initiative and a strong desire to assist others, displaying an empathetic and proactive approach in dealing with clients.

This is a rare and exciting opportunity to work in a supportive and stimulating environment, providing a high quality legal service to pursuers of personal injury claims nationwide.

If you would like to apply for this post, please send your CV and covering letter to David Hendrie, by e-mail at recruit@digbybrown.co.uk as soon as possible.

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Solicitor – Historic Environment Scotland

Starting Salary: £41,867 per annum

Salary Range: £41,867 - £47,574 per annum

Hours: Full time (37 hours per week), We are flexible as to how the 37 hours are worked i.e. compressed hours

Contract type: Permanent

Closing date: Wednesday 15 December 2021 (midday)

Historic Environment Scotland (HES) is seeking candidates for a new role within our Legal function as an in-house solicitor, reporting to our Head of Legal. As a Solicitor within HES, your primary responsibility will be providing legal advice to our organisation on a broad range of legal issues.

If you are someone who is; a qualified solicitor and member of the Law Society of Scotland with a current practising certificate, with experience of drafting and negotiating commercial contracts, then this could be a fantastic opportunity for you.

About the role

HES is a unique organisation with a broad range of functions. We are a ‘Non-department Public Body’ (NDPB) with charitable status, as well as operating as a national commercial business within the tourism sector. As a Solicitor within HES your role will involve assisting our Head of Legal in providing advice to the organisation on a wide range of matters, enabling us to manage our legal risks, with a particular focus on commercial contracts. You will also be involved in implementing processes, controls and business improvements to embed a positive culture of legal risk management.

About you

To be successful, as a qualified solicitor with a minimum of 2 years’ PQE, you will have experience in commercial contract drafting, and a willingness to advise our organisation on a wide-ranging, unusual and interesting range of matters.

You will be able to provide evidence of your strong planning, organising, communication, facilitation, negotiation and analytical skills, as well as your ability to produce innovative solutions to business challenges. Full details about the person we are looking for can be found in the job description for this role.

Interested?

Visit our website to view the full job description and for information about applying online for this interesting and exciting opportunity. 

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Appointment of Board Members – Scottish Charity Regulator

Ranging from local village halls to Colleges and Universities, the Scottish charity sector is as diverse as the country itself.  If you would like to play a key part in this exciting area of Scottish life, and to help build a trusted and respected Scottish charity sector which positively contributes to society and the national outcomes, then come and join our Board. Due to upcoming retirements, and as part of effective succession planning, Scottish Ministers wish to appoint up to five members to the Board of the Scottish Charity Regulator (OSCR).  As a board member you will help us to hold charities in Scotland to account, and enable the charity sector to improve so that the public have trust and confidence in charities.  

OSCR is Scotland’s Charity regulator and registrar for Scotland’s 25,000 charities. We are a Non Ministerial Office (NMO) part of the Scottish Administration, working alongside but separate from the Scottish Government. We are accountable to the Scottish Parliament.  We believe that the Scottish public should have faith that the country's 25,000 charities are well run, and building public confidence will allow these vital organisations to thrive and cement their place at the heart of our day to day life. We also know how challenging the last year has been for the charity sector, and we want to support their recovery where we can.

The OSCR Board sets the strategic direction and ensures that activities focus on the delivery of key priorities. The Board also sets the overall vision for OSCR and works with the Chief Executive to monitor performance. 

We are looking for up to five new Board members. We welcome interest from individuals who may not have had previous Board experience, but who have the potential to contribute, who wish to develop their skills in this area and are willing to learn.   

For three out of the five new members we are seeking someone with at least one of the following priority skills and experience:

  1. Current or recent experience as a practising Scottish lawyer
  2. Current or recent experience as a practising accountant/finance professional (experience of Chairing an ARAC desirable)
  3. Understanding of regulation at a senior level in any sector

All candidates should have the following essential core skills and qualities:

  • Ability to work in a team
  • Ability to ensure effective governance through constructive challenge and influence
  • Good communication skills
  • Ability to analyse and review complex issues

Appointments are based on meeting the skills required and these are described in more detail in the application pack.

Appointment details:  We anticipate that these appointments will commence on 1 April 2022, however there may be scope for appointments to commence later than that. Appointments will be for a period of up to four years, with the possibility of re-appointment subject to evidence of effective performance and satisfying the skills, knowledge and personal qualities required at the time of re-appointment. Start dates and appointment length will be discussed with the successful candidates.

Time Commitment:  The formal time commitment is up to 2 days per month which includes attending approximately 6 board meetings and 2 strategy days per year, as well as either our Audit Risk and Assurance Committee or Casework Committee. 

Location:  Meetings were historically held alternately in Dundee and other locations as appropriate however due to the recent pandemic all meetings are being held remotely.

Remuneration:  £210 per day. Travel, subsistence, and reasonable dependent carer allowance incurred as a result of carrying out the duties associated with this appointment will be reimbursed. This is non-pensionable.

Should you wish to enquire whether you have a possible conflict of interest or wish more information on OSCR please contact Maureen Mallon, OSCR Chief Executive via email Maureen.Mallon@oscr.org.uk or telephone 01382 220446.

Closing date for applications is Friday 3 December 2021 at Midnight.

An application pack and full details on this appointment can be found via this link on the Public Appointments Website.  

If you experience any difficulties accessing the website, please contact the Public Appointments Team on Freephone 0300 244 1898, by email at Public.appointments@gov.scot.

We would welcome applications from anyone who believes they could make a strong contribution although we are also seeking to broaden the diversity of the Board including the breadth of its geographical involvement, gender balance and engagement of other groups currently under-represented on Scotland’s public bodies, such as disabled people, those from black and minority ethnic communities and people under 50.

Appointed on merit; committed to diversity and equality.

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Dispute Resolution & Litigation Associate – Lindsays

Permanent
Preferably 4 years+ PQE (other levels of PQE considered)
Edinburgh based (flexible working options considered).
£neg

Lindsays is a full-service law firm with a reputation for providing an excellent and outstanding service to clients. Our specialist teams offer a diverse range of services, allowing us to cater to the needs of a wide range of clients, whether individual or corporate.

We have a great opportunity for an experienced litigator to join our well-established team. You will advise our clients on a wide range of contentious matters, with a particular focus on commercial disputes.  Property litigation experience is essential.  Insolvency expertise would be beneficial.  Working with a supportive team, there will be opportunities to develop expertise in other contentious specialisms - whether building on experience you already have or broadening your practice into entirely new areas.  You can expect to be involved in Sheriff Court and Court of Session actions, as well as Alternative Dispute Resolution.

This is a permanent role with core hours of 9am - 5pm (flexible).

Key responsibilities include:

  • Provision of a high-quality dispute resolution service to our clients.
  • Maintaining regular client contact and addressing their needs and requirements.
  • Managing a busy and varied caseload.
  • Appearing at Sheriff Courts throughout Scotland, whether remotely or in person.
  • Supervising and mentoring trainees and recently qualified solicitors.
  • Recording all time and generating appropriate levels of fee income.
  • Undertaking regular file reviews.
  • Keeping up to date with developments in the law and regulatory requirements.
  • Attending and/ or contributing to internal and external seminars.
  • Developing expertise in key areas to meet the evolving needs of our clients.
  • Contributing legal up-dates and analysis to the firm’s website and trade press.
  • Active participation in a range of business development initiatives.                                                                                          

If you are interested in applying for the above role and possess the relevant experience please send your CV, including a note of your current salary, to Pauline Dalbeck, HR Manager, Caledonian Exchange, 19A Canning Street, Edinburgh, EH3 8HE or email: recruitment@lindsays.co.uk

Lindsays is an equal opportunities employer.

No agencies please.

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Solicitor - Catastrophic Injury Team (At least 2 years’ PQE) – Digby Brown Solicitors

Full-time, Permanent

Glasgow

Due to ongoing growth within the business, an opportunity has arisen for a client-focused litigator to join our Catastrophic Injury Team in the Glasgow office.

This post will suit a qualified lawyer who has at least 2 years PQE, strong litigation skills, and some experience in civil litigation. Alternatively, you may have had commercial training/experience and be seeking an opportunity to move to an area of law where you can make a difference to clients and know that you are doing work that really matters.

The successful candidate will have a keen eye for detail, the ability to act on their own initiative and a strong desire to assist others, displaying an empathetic and proactive approach in dealing with clients.

Digby Brown has been one of the success stories of the Scottish legal sector in the past decade – we now operate in seven regional areas across Scotland, having tripled in size in the last nine years.

We are the only firm top ranked by Chambers and Legal 500 for personal injury work, which has been the case now for 15 years running. The Firm has also been voted Scottish Law Firm of the Year in three out of the last six years.

We have developed a reputation as a formidable court firm, focused on quality service for our clients and expertise in our people. We work in a distinctive way – what we do works and makes a difference in people’s lives.

Digby Brown is committed to being an employer of choice, which is evidenced by our competitive salary and benefits package, as well as the opportunities we provide for further development – a total of 14 of our 25 Partners joined us as NQs or Trainees.

To support the quality of service we provide to our clients, and our people’s personal development, we have innovated together and built a brand new, cutting edge, digital client case management system. We have focused on providing modern digital solutions and unique case workflow to our employees and we will continue to adapt this technology in line with our firm values.

In addition, the events of the past year surrounding the Coronavirus pandemic have enabled us to implement a more flexible working approach moving forward, which we are calling Hybrid Working. This will enable our people to split their working time between their homes and the office, on a pre-agreed number of days per week, in line with the needs of their department.

This is a wonderful opportunity to join one of our specialist teams and develop your skills in a very challenging area of PI law.

If you would like to apply for this post, please send your CV and covering letter to David Hendrie, by e-mail at recruit@digbybrown.co.uk by Thursday 21 October 2021. 

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Events

Introduction to Environmental Law in Scotland | Law Society of Scotland Sponsored post

14 December | Live Online | 1.5 hours' CPD

Join our speaker Chala McKenna, Senior Solicitor at Davidson Chalmers Stewart, for our Introduction to Environmental Law in Scotland Seminar.

Environmental law is a complex and niche area, but solicitors practicing in other areas such as commercial property, renewables, planning and corporate may encounter scenarios where environmental considerations are important. This course will help you identify where environmental issues may be relevant and when to seek specialist advice.

For more information or to book your place please visit our website.

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Solicitor Advocates Introductory Course 2022 Sponsored post

The Society of Solicitor Advocates is running an Introductory Course for prospective Solicitor Advocates on Friday 14 January 2022 via Zoom. This course meets the criteria of an Introductory Course as defined under rule C.4. of the Law Society of Scotland Practice Rules 2011.

The half-day event is intended for all solicitors (civil or criminal) considering applying for Extended Rights of Audience who would like to know more about the process and require to attend a mandatory Introductory Course.

Speakers include Lord Ericht and Lord Armstrong as well as Sonia Gentile-Mills, the Accreditation Manager of Education, Training and Qualifications at the Law Society of Scotland, and experienced Solicitor Advocates involved with the training and qualification processes.

There will also be a panel session dealing with practical and topical matters relative to practising as a Solicitor Advocate.

The course will run from 9am sharp until 12.30pm and costs £75.

If you would like to attend the course, please contact our Administrator, Ellen Wilson, on 01506 846587 or email ellen@solicitoradvocates.org.

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Mental Health: Practice, Procedure and Caselaw – 9 December Sponsored post

It has been estimated that one in three people are affected by mental illness in any one year.

This timely virtual classroom, presented by Scott Blair, an advocate with Terra Firma Chambers and a Legal Convener of the Mental Health Tribunal for Scotland, will consider:

  • the impact of Covid-19 on law and practice
  • MH v MHTS- anonymity and telephone hearings - the appeal story so far
  • recent UK case law
  • ECHR principles on deprivation of liberty and the treatment for mental illness
  • the impact of the UN Convention on the Rights of People With Disabilities
  • recent Scottish legislative changes and Tribunal procedure developments

Delivered live online, this virtual classroom will provide you with 3 hours’ verifiable CPD.

For more information and to book click here.

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Project Management for Lawyers Masterclass – 6 December Sponsored post

Despite the principle of Legal Project Management receiving a lot of attention within the profession, lawyers with project management skills are still rare and therefore highly marketable.

This masterclass will take you through all phases of the project management cycle and help you to understand key concepts such as return on investment, opportunity cost, risk, resourcing, KPIs and earned value management.

Detailed learning outcomes will focus on four key objectives and include: 

  •  Project Basics and Business Cases
    •    Project Scopes, Risk and Compliance
    •    Project Communication and the Multi Project Environment
    •    Project Performance, Handover and Abandonment

Delivered live online, the masterclass will provide you with 6 hours’ verifiable CPD.

For more information and to book click here.

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Morton Fraser Personal Injury Podcast Series | Masterclass in Personal Injury and Medical Negligence Claims Sponsored post

In the first episode of our six-part series discussing personal injury and medical negligence claims, David Hossack discusses with experts Nicola Edgar and Derek Couper their experience of the challenges and opportunities most often encountered when acting on behalf of individuals in pursuing claims resulting from injury, misdiagnosis, disease or death. They will also provide an introduction into the range of topics that will be covered in the series over the coming months.

The six-part series is aimed at solicitors working in this area of law. It will focus on a variety of topics which are relevant to everyday practice including the key issues a claimant must overcome in order to achieve a successful outcome to their case, the investigation of liability, the most effective ways to quantify losses to ensure no disadvantage is unaccounted for when negotiating appropriate compensation, how best to fund claims, and key lessons in recovering expenses including maximisation of judicial accounts. The impact of COVID-19 on personal injury and medical negligence claims will also be covered, alongside an update on the most noteworthy among recent case law in this specialised area of litigation.  

Morton Fraser are highly recommended by both clients and independent legal directories. We are ranked by the Legal 500 Directory as experts in both personal injury law and medical negligence law. We have expertise in handling all types of claims, including road traffic accidents, cycling accidents, accidents at work, accidents abroad, slipping and tripping accidents and industrial disease cases. We have extensive experience in dealing with fatal claims and medical negligence claims and we regularly work with other firms in order to progress claims under our referral scheme. This is an arrangement which works well, particularly for complex cases requiring specialist advice where a significant amount of time and money requires to be invested in a case long before any award is forthcoming. With one of the largest litigation teams in Scotland, we have the resources and expertise needed to ensure our clients obtain the maximum amount of compensation possible for their personal injury claim.

Listen here: Masterclass in Personal Injury and Medical Negligence Claims | Morton Fraser Lawyers | Edinburgh and Glasgow (morton-fraser.com)

If you would like to subscribe to the series, please visit the links below.

Spotify

Apple

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CPD Packages | Law Society of Scotland Sponsored post

Like to be organised and get great value?

Book a flexible CPD Package and receive a bank of 20 hours you can use to attend any of the CPD conferences, webinars and seminars we offer throughout the practice year. You can use your hours to book in-person, live online or on-demand CPD.*

While our packages are completely flexible, we do recommend specific training for each individual package based on practice areas. We will continue to add tailored CPD to our programme throughout the year, so there will be a wealth of options for you to choose from.

Follow the links for full details of each package:

For more information about Law Society of Scotland CPD Packages please visit our website.

*Please note Certification Courses, Essential Skills Courses, Trainee CPD and the New Partner Practice Management Course are not covered by CPD packages.

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Send your events to Scottish Legal News Sponsored post

Get your events listed on Scottish Legal News by contacting our advertising manager, Jeff Anderson, on jeff@scottishnews.com.

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