Vacancy: Senior Solicitor – 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.

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).