Trainee Solicitor: Governance and Charities

The WS Society is looking for a talented and enthusiastic individual to join our in-house team as a Trainee Solicitor for a September 2025 start. This is a fantastic opportunity to start training immediately in a unique and prestigious legal environment, gaining hands-on experience in a wide range of legal and governance matters.

About the WS Society

The Society of Writers to His Majesty’s Signet (known as the WS Society) (Scottish charity SC050987) is the incorporated body of Scottish lawyers known as Writers to the Signet or “WS” with over 500 years of heritage. We are one of the oldest incorporated bodies in Scotland for public benefit and a historic and integral part of Scotland’s legal landscape. As the professional body and membership organisation for Writer to the Signet (WS) lawyers, we uphold the highest standards of legal practice. We manage our own affairs, including our rich heritage and significant charitable activities, all from our magnificent home, the Signet Library in Edinburgh.

The Role

You'll be part of a small, dynamic in-house team, working closely with the Society's Head of Governance and Charities. Your training will cover a wide range of tasks, including:

  • Managing the day-to-day administration of the portfolio of clients.

  • Supporting all aspects of a charity’s affairs from secretarial assistance, record keeping, trustee recruitment, financial administration, grant-making policy to strategic reviews.

  • Drafting, reviewing, and advising on legal documents and policies.

  • Conducting legal research on matters of charity law, company law, and trust law.

  • Assisting with compliance and regulatory filings.

This is a broad and challenging role that will give you a comprehensive grounding in in-house legal work, with a particular focus on the unique issues facing not-for-profit and membership organisations.

In your second year, you'll gain valuable experience in a different setting through a 6-month or 12 -month commercial/ litigation secondment to a leading law firm. This will broaden your legal skills and expose you to private practice, making you a well-rounded and versatile lawyer.

Who We're Looking For

The ideal candidate will:

  • Hold an LLB (Honours) and Diploma in Professional Legal Practice.

  • Demonstrate a genuine interest in charity law and corporate governance.

  • Be an excellent communicator, both verbally and in writing.

  • Possess strong analytical and problem-solving skills.

  • Be meticulous with a keen eye for detail.

  • Be proactive, eager to learn, and able to work well both independently and as part of a small team.

We are committed to providing a supportive and enriching training experience, helping you develop the skills and confidence to build a successful legal career.

How to Apply

To apply, please send your CV and a cover letter to Sophie Mills WS (smills@wssociety.co.uk). Your cover letter should explain why you are interested in this specific role and what makes you a great fit for the WS Society.

Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis, and the position will remain open until a suitable candidate is appointed.

We look forward to hearing from you!