Vacancy: Solicitor – Edinburgh

We’re looking for a committed and confident criminal defence solicitor to join PDSO Edinburgh.

This is an exciting opportunity to make a real difference in the lives of clients, delivering high-quality legal representation in both solemn and summary proceedings.

Key responsibilities include:

• Providing legal advice and representation to clients at police stations and in criminal courts as a nominated and duty solicitor
• Applying best practice and legal procedures to ensure effective case handling and operational efficiency
• Building and maintaining a local client base through excellent service and representation
• Representing the PDSO in liaison with external organisations to support the wider objectives of Client Legal Services
• Contributing to staff training and development within the team.

To succeed in this role, you will need:

• A current, unrestricted practising certificate and enrolment as a solicitor with the Law Society of Scotland
• Strong experience in Scots criminal law and criminal court procedure
• Experience advising clients in police detention and managing cases across summary and solemn courts
• Sound judgement and the ability to make objective, informed decisions under pressure
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills – persuasive, clear and client-focused
• Strong planning, organisational, and time management skills with an eye for quality
• A proactive, driven mindset with a high standard of personal ethics and professionalism
• A valid driving licence for travel to courts, client meetings, and other PDSO offices.

About The Public Defence Solicitors’ Office (PDSO)

The Public Defence Solicitors’ Office (PDSO) is a national network of publicly employed solicitors, providing high-quality criminal legal assistance across Scotland. Established in 1998, we operate as a direct service of the Scottish Legal Aid Board, offering expert advice and representation to clients eligible for criminal legal aid. Our experienced team supports individuals facing summary and solemn cases at all levels, representing them in some of Scotland’s busiest courts.

We are part of SLAB’s Client Legal Services Directorate which comprises PDSO, the Civil Legal Assistance Office (CLAO) and the Solicitor Contact Line (SCL), making us Scotland’s largest multi-disciplinary legal aid practice and a unique place to work.

How to apply

Full details about the role and online application are available on our recruitment portal (external link).