At Thorntons Law, every moment matters. Join our IP team and you’ll feel inspired. You’ll feel connected. You’ll feel like you belong. And it all begins from the moment you join us.

That’s because we’ve created a different kind of law firm. Here, you’ll build relationships with clients and colleagues that really last. You’ll help shape what happens now, and what comes next. And we’ll support and encourage you to be the best you can be.

This is what life at Thorntons is all about. And this is your moment to be part of it.

About the role

Be the expert clients rely on.

At Thorntons, our dedicated Intellectual Property team advises clients across a broad range of sectors on how to protect, commercialise and maximise the value of their ideas, brands and innovations. From global businesses with extensive trademark portfolios to innovative start-ups and family-owned companies, we provide pragmatic legal advice tailored to each client’s commercial objectives.

As part of one of the largest specialist Intellectual Property teams in Scotland, you’ll advise on the protection, exploitation and commercialisation of intellectual property assets while building strong client relationships across a varied and rewarding workload. This is an excellent opportunity to further develop your expertise within a collaborative and highly regarded team recognised in both Legal 500 and Chambers, working across a diverse range of industries. It’s about:

• Trademarks and Branding - advising clients on brand protection strategies, trademark clearance, registration, portfolio management and enforcement across the UK and internationally.
• Copyright, Design Rights and IP Protection – providing guidance on the creation, ownership, protection and commercial exploitation of rights including copyright, database rights, design rights, know-how and trade secrets.
• Commercial Contracts - drafting, reviewing and negotiating a range of commercial agreements including licensing, collaboration, confidentiality, software, sponsorship and supply agreements.
• Intellectual Property Advisory Work – supporting clients on a broad range of IP matters including infringement issues, ownership disputes, commercialisation strategies and risk management.
• Client Relationships - developing trusted relationships with clients by delivering pragmatic, commercially focused advice aligned with their business objectives.
• Collaboration – working closely with colleagues across the firm to deliver integrated legal solutions for clients operating in sectors including technology, media, life sciences, food and drink and education.

What you’ll need

We’re looking for:

• A qualified Solicitor with ideally 2 – 4 Yrs post-qualified experience, although candidates out with this range will also be considered and are encouraged to apply.
• Experience in intellectual property and/or commercial contracts work
• A strong interest in branding, innovation, technology and commercial legal issues
• Excellent drafting, analytical and problem-solving skills
• A commercial and solutions-focused mindset
• Strong communication skills and the ability to build lasting client relationships
• The ability to manage a varied workload and work effectively as part of a collaborative team
• A proactive and enthusiastic approach to business development and client service

Why Thorntons

• A highly regarded Intellectual Property team recognised in Legal 500 and Chambers
• High-quality, varied and intellectually interesting matters across multiple sectors
• A collaborative, supportive and inclusive working environment
• Genuine opportunities for progression and professional development
• The opportunity to build strong client relationships and play a meaningful role in growing a well-established practice
• You’ll be working alongside leading and supportive lawyer who are passionate about delivering practical, commercially focussed solutions for an impressive client base.

What we offer

We offer much more than just a competitive salary, and we’re committed to looking after our people in every way. Here’s just some of the benefits available:

Benefits

• 39 Days Annual Leave (includes 5 fixed public holidays)
• Contributory Pension Scheme with salary exchange
• Private Medical Insurance
• Critical Illness Cover
• Income Protection Cover
• Group Life Assurance
• Exceptional maternity, paternity, partner and adoption leave packages
• Assisted Conception & IVF Leave
• Health care cash plan to support everyday health expenses
• 24-hour wellbeing support
• Free Legal fees for moving home and life planning
• Cycle to Work Scheme
• Gym Discounts
• Retail Discounts
• Hybrid Working

Professional development

Access to a wide range of opportunities to build your expertise and advance your career, through courses, specialist accreditations, training, or business skills development.

Belonging

At Thorntons, we embrace diversity and are committed to creating a welcoming and inclusive workplace where everyone can thrive.

As a Disability Confident employer, we want to ensure that everyone has a positive experience when applying to join us. If you have a disability or are neurodivergent and need any adjustments during the recruitment process, just let us know — we’ll do everything we can to support you.

We work flexibly to meet the needs of our clients and our people. While not every role is the same, most offer a hybrid working pattern. We’ll work with you to agree the right arrangement that supports you, the role, and our clients.

Make the moment matter

If you’re looking for a career with a different kind of law firm, this is the moment to find out more - and apply.

Choosing the right company is about more than just the work—it’s about the people, the culture, and the opportunities to grow. At Thorntons Law, we’ve built something different. We’re one of Scotland’s largest and most respected full-service legal firms, but more importantly, we’re a firm that invests in you—your development, your ambitions, and your future.

All you need to do is apply here OR send a CV to opportunities@thorntons-law.co.uk and we’ll be in touch.