Law
at Guiding Saints
Take an in-depth look at various legal careers, roles, and opportunities available throughout Scotland, the rest of the UK and the US.
Disciplines of law
Delve into the specialised disciplines of law and discover which align best with your interests and skills.
Criminal
Criminal law pertains to offenses against the state or public, prescribing punishments for conduct deemed harmful to society. It involves the prosecution and defense of individuals or entities charged with criminal activities, focusing on deterrence, punishment, and rehabilitation.
Civil
Civil law governs disputes between individuals, organizations, or between the two, in which compensation or another remedy is sought. It encompasses areas such as contracts, torts, property, and family law, aiming to resolve non-criminal conflicts and provide restitution to the aggrieved party.
Commercial
Commercial law deals with the legal aspects of business and commercial transactions, including contracts, sales, and corporate governance. It encompasses various subfields like antitrust law, securities regulation, and intellectual property, ensuring fair and lawful conduct in commerce.
Constitutional
Constitutional law involves the interpretation and application of a country's constitution, addressing fundamental principles such as the separation of powers, individual rights, and the roles of government branches. It ensures that laws and policies conform to constitutional mandates and protects citizens' fundamental rights.
International
International law governs the relationships and agreements between nations, encompassing treaties, conventions, and customary practices. It addresses issues such as diplomacy, trade, human rights, and conflict resolution, promoting global cooperation and peace.
Administrative
Administrative law regulates the activities of government agencies, including rule-making, enforcement of regulations, and adjudication of disputes. It ensures that these agencies act within their authority, follow fair procedures, and respect citizens' rights.
Career Timeline
The legal sector offers a structured yet challenging career progression, beginning with your studies at St Andrews and potentially culminating in a senior position at a professional firm or within government.
Undergraduate Studies at St Andrews
3-5 years
Students pursue a degree in related disciplines like International Relations or History, as St Andrews does not offer a dedicated law course.
Graduate Diploma in Law (GDL)
1 year
Complete the GDL or an equivalent conversion course to bridge the gap with knowledge presented in an undergraduate law degree. This conversion course provides the foundational legal knowledge required for further legal education.
Diploma in Professional Legal Practice (DPLP)
1 year
Complete the DPLP, a mandatory postgraduate qualification that equips aspiring solicitors with essential practical skills and knowledge required for legal practice in Scotland.
Traineeship
2 years
Gain practical experience under the supervision of experienced solicitors in a law firm, rotating through various departments to develop a well-rounded understanding of different legal areas.
Qualified Solicitor
Upon completion of Traineeship
Apply to the Law Society of Scotland to be admitted to the Roll of Solicitors, officially becoming a qualified solicitor in Scotland.
Newly Qualified Solicitor
1-3 years
Start practicing law independently, often in the firm where you completed your traineeship, and begin building your client base and reputation.
Established Solicitor
3-7 years
Specialize in specific areas of law, such as commercial law, property law, or family law, and take on more complex cases.
Partnership/Leadership Roles
7-10+ years
Advance your career by becoming a partner in a law firm or taking on leadership roles, such as managing partner or head of department.
Senior Roles
Progress to senior positions within law firms or consider transitioning to in-house counsel roles, academia, or judicial positions.