Senior Solicitor

Public Defence Solicitors’ Office

Falkirk

We’re looking for an experienced and motivated Senior Solicitor to join our PDSO team in Falkirk and deliver high-quality criminal defence services across summary and solemn courts, as well as at police stations.

You’ll play a key role in upholding ethical, independent legal representation while supporting the development of colleagues through mentoring and training.

Key responsibilities include:

Providing expert advice and representation to clients in criminal investigations and proceedings
Representing clients in summary and solemn courts, and at police stations, as a duty and nominated solicitor
Applying legal practices, procedures, and Codes of Practice to ensure high-quality service delivery
Building and maintaining a strong client base within the local area
Supporting the Head of Office in achieving operational and strategic objectives
Representing the organisation in dealings with external bodies
Mentoring and supporting solicitors in managing caseloads and developing their skills
Contributing to the training and development of staff within the PDSO.

To succeed in this role, you will need:

A full and unrestricted practising certificate from the Law Society of Scotland
In-depth knowledge of the criminal justice system and legal aid
Strong practical experience in Scots criminal law, including court advocacy
Experience advising and assisting clients in police detention
The ability to handle complex cases requiring specialist legal knowledge
Strong judgement and decision-making skills, with the ability to evaluate options effectively
Excellent communication and presentation skills, with the ability to influence and persuade
The ability to mentor, coach, and support the development of colleagues.

What we offer:

A meaningful role where your work makes a real impact
A supportive, inclusive, and values-driven working environment
Opportunities for learning and professional development
Flexible working to support a healthy work-life balance
A competitive salary and benefits package, including pension contributions
Generous annual leave entitlement (34 days, rising to 42 days after two years’ service)
Enhanced family-friendly leave entitlements
Access to wellbeing support, mental health support and an employee assistance programme
Access to a wide range of discounts (including gym and retail) and the Cycle to Work scheme through our partner, Edenred.

For more details about this role and a full list of essential criteria and required competencies, please see the Job Description.

For more information, click here