Role of professional support lawyer now a career in its own right

Lynda Ross

Construction law specialist Lynda Ross, who took on the role after a career break, told The Herald that while the PSL role was previously seen as inferior to those of associate or partner, it has now become a career in its own right.

“I’ve seen the role evolve and change and grow and there are now enormous opportunities for lawyers who want to take this career path,” Ms Ross said.

“Law firms have recognised the need for lawyers who can specialise in areas such as the management of legal knowledge and innovation. These are areas that have undergone radical change and that’s what’s made the difference.”

Law Society of Scotland professional practice director Fiona Robb said: “Professional support lawyers play an important role in the business models of commercial law firms.

“The face of the legal profession is ever changing and has seen great transformation in recent decades. With an increasingly competitive marketplace and the growing importance of technology, legal firms have developed new smarter ways of working to keep pace and offer improved client care.”

The role is also a varied one. Ms Ross said: “I advise the team and support them with new and complex areas of law; I do training, mentoring and manage projects; and I have an external-facing role too – I love training clients.

“None of this is fee-earning so for law firms to invest in PSLs they need to recognise that they bring value to the firm.”