Commercial Litigation Associate / Senior Associate

We are currently looking to recruit a motivated, bright and ambitious international commercial disputes associate to join our Edinburgh team.

Our Edinburgh team advises on high value and complex litigation and international arbitration. Acting for a diverse, international client and sector base, the successful candidate will gain direct experience in all aspects of dispute avoidance, management and resolution of high quality, high value and highly complex, and often international, disputes.

The role will be based in our Edinburgh office but will also require travel to client sites and our other UK and international offices from time to time.

Main duties and responsibilities

As part of our market leading global team, candidates will enjoy a high quality range of work including, but not be limited to:

• Advising on all aspects of disputes avoidance, management and resolution of high quality, highly complex disputes across a range of sectors
• Management of disputes and preparation of strategies for dealing with claims, be they by international arbitration, litigation, adjudication, expert determination or mediation
• Drafting, reviewing and amending a range of dispute related documents (ranging from pleadings to pre action letters)
• Strategically advising clients and managing client expectations and project delivery appropriately
• Liaising with and taking instruction from clients
• Attending client meetings
• Business development; and
• Legal research

About you

We do not set upper or lower limits of PQE for any of our vacancies. We have, however, given an indicative PQE as an approximate guide for applicants. Candidates who have between 1- and 6-years’ experience are likely to have the right level of knowledge and have gained the right level of experience needed to be able to undertake this role.

The ideal candidate will:

• be a qualified Solicitor, qualified in Scotland and a member of the Law Society of Scotland
• have strong litigation experience gained in a leading Scottish, City or other top regional firm, but must be admitted to practice law in Scotland. Being additionally qualified to practice in England & Wales (or a willingness or desire to do so) is advantageous, but not essential)
• have multi-disciplinary experience, including litigation, arbitration and alternative dispute resolution
• have a specific interest in supporting clients operating in at least one of the Financial Services; Energy and Natural Resources; Industrials (including Space); Technology or Life Sciences sectors
• be able to demonstrate a deep understanding of the technical issues that are key to clients
• have experience working across jurisdictions and advising international clients
• non-English language skills are desirable, though not essential
• be capable of building be capable of building and developing their in own network of internal and external contacts
• draft documents using a commercial, client focussed style
• comply with professional standards and all relevant regulatory obligations
• comply with the firm's systems, policies and procedures in all matters - including compliance, financial systems and time recording; and
• know and understand how to best utilise information and research resources

Behavioural skills:

• Commercially astute and stays current on key legal and business news
• Excellent skills in communication, client relations, and team-working
• Provides a professional, quality service in a timely manner, and responds effectively to requests from internal and external clients
• Understands positive client support
• Creates confidence in the team and the firm
• Works co-operatively in a team, sharing information and knowledge
• Manages time effectively and efficiently
• Seeks to manage own utilisation wherever possible in order to meet individual and team targets
• Takes ownership for achieving agreed objectives
• Recognises and seizes opportunities for the firm, including repeat business
• Builds and develops own network of internal and external contacts
• Awareness of business development initiatives in the department and identifies ways to contribute
• Maintains a controlled, objective and flexible approach under pressure
• Exhibits behaviour consistent with the firm's values and builds relationships based on respect, trust and integrity
• Exposure to, or experience of, advocacy within the Scottish legal system is highly desirable though not essential

About Us:

We're a global law firm helping our clients achieve their goals wherever they do business. Our pursuit of innovation has transformed our delivery of legal services. With offices in the Americas, Europe, the Middle East, Africa and Asia Pacific, we deliver exceptional outcomes on cross-border projects, critical transactions and high-stakes disputes.

At DLA Piper, we understand that inclusion is not a one-size-fits-all concept. We embrace and celebrate the range of perspectives, backgrounds and experiences that each individual brings to our firm. By fostering a culture that welcomes and appreciates all aspects of our individuality, we ensure that everyone has the opportunity to succeed.

Our commitment to inclusion and positive social impact enables us to provide exceptional service to our clients and communities, while nurturing a unique and inclusive culture for all our people. We welcome the unique contribution that you will bring to our firm and actively encourage applications from all talented people – however your talent is packaged, whatever your background or circumstance and regardless of how you identify.

We are committed to being accessible and accommodating any reasonable adjustments needed throughout the recruitment process to ensure an inclusive experience for all. If you need any support or adjustments, please let us know.

Where local legislation permits, we will conduct relevant pre-engagement screening checks prior to your first day.