Litigation trainee — Edinburgh

This is a two-year, full-time fixed-term contract starting in September 2025 and is an opportunity to join our fast growing, ambitious firm.

What does the role involve?

If you're keen to pursue a career in litigation, this role will give you exposure to a range of matters across this discipline, including high-value and complex litigation. You’ll work with public sector institutions, including several local authorities, and major insurers.

As a trainee, you will —

• Work on a broad variety of cases in the Court of Session, National Personal Injury Court and sheriff courts including preparing court papers, reports, letters and conducting legal research

• Take client instructions and assisting with witness statements

• Liaise with courts, counsel, and intermediaries

• Attend client meetings, court hearings, and participate in advocacy where appropriate

• Maintain accurate time recording and completing at least 60 hours of TCPD training

• Actively participate in networking and charitable events within the firm

Our ideal candidate

Working alongside experienced colleagues, including accredited specialists and solicitor advocates, you'll be keen to gain advocacy experience, with opportunities to do so early in your career.

We have a strong track record of offering post-qualifying positions to trainees, and if you're considering a career as an advocate, this position may also be of interest.

You’ll have —

• An LLB or LLB (Hons) in Scots Law and PEAT1/DipLP before the traineeship start date in 2025

• An entrance certificate from the Law Society of Scotland

• Strong organisational, research, and communication skills

• Competency in Microsoft Office

A driving licence is desirable but not essential.

Why choose Ledingham Chalmers?

As a trainee and — ultimately — a qualified solicitor, you’ll have the autonomy to shape your career and grow within an independent Scottish law firm where your contributions are actively encouraged.

There are plenty of opportunities for personal development through networking, social events, and firm-wide groups.

Perhaps you’ll become part of our charities group to help make a difference, or play a key role in our wellbeing group, which supports colleagues’ physical and mental health.

What are the firm’s aspirations for the future?

We have ambitious growth plans. And we’re looking for like-minded colleagues to join us at an exciting time for our firm.

We’re proud of what we’ve achieved so far — and of the progressive culture we’ve created. Our core values guide how we work with each other and our clients, as well as how we give back to our local communities.

Here’s Edinburgh-based partner Sarah Morris explaining why she chose Ledingham Chalmers as a trainee.

With offices in Aberdeen, Inverness, Edinburgh, and Stirling, we work with individuals, public sector organisations, and businesses across a range of sectors driving the national economy.

We’re growing fast, achieving record turnover for the third consecutive year and increasing our headcount to 195, including 22 partners. Recent investments in our offices and collaborative workspaces reflect our commitment to providing the best environments for our people.

Don’t take our word for it — here’s what former trainees say