Opportunities for lawyers in the GLSS
The GLSS and the Scottish Government on its behalf as an employer are committed to equal opportunities and to attracting and developing talented public lawyers from a diverse range of backgrounds.
Throughout some 186 legal posts in the various offices staffed by GLSS lawyers, the GLSS provides excellent opportunities for a varied and stimulating career.
GLSS lawyers are all civil servants and recruitment is by way of open competition run by the Government. Vacancies are advertised on the Scottish Government website as well as in the national press. Assignment to a particular post takes place after recruitment and is determined by the business needs of the different offices, taking into account, so far as practicable, the experience and preferences of successful candidates.
Beyond the recruitment stage, the GLSS operates an assignment policy for its legally qualified staff which is designed to facilitate staff development and to ensure a high quality legal service that meets the needs of the different offices.
Learn about the personal experiences of
Andrew Campbell + Michael Carey + Claire Meikle
Lesley Bagha + Kevin Gibson + Kathryn McCartney
Kenny Hannaway + Gillian Russell + Ailsa Garland
Susan Conroy + Stephen Crillly
From the individual's perspective, the aim is to provide opportunities for all staff to broaden their experience and expertise across the range of legal services provided by government lawyers. So staff at all levels will, by and large, be expected to move post every few years and, on occasion, to move between the different offices. All postings are valuable in developing relevant aptitudes and skills.
Opportunities also exist for secondment outwith the offices staffed by the GLSS in order to allow further development of experience and skills. This might be secondment to one of the EU institutions or a placement with an external organisation, whether in the public or private sector.
It has on occasion involved a temporary posting to the other side of the world.
Read the story of Laurence in Indonesia
In addition the GLSS encourages its staff to experience policy posts within government (e.g. in certain parts of the Justice and Communities Directorate).
Trainee solicitors
See: Traineeships with the GLSS for more information.
Read about the Legal Eagles Flying South for experiences of Trainees working in Dover House, London
Pay and conditions
The GLSS offers excellent working conditions and career prospects, supported by a commitment to training and development. Salaries are in the range of £38,631 to £50,551 for the main recruitment grade. Appointments are permanent and pensionable. There are part-time and job-share opportunities as well as other flexible working arrangements.
Summer placement scheme
See Traineeship FAQs for information on this scheme.
For further information contact:
GLSS Secretariat
G B(N)
Victoria Quay
Edinburgh
EH6 6QQ
Tel no. 0131 244 0815
email - GLSSenquiries@scotland.gsi.gov.uk