Associate / Senior Associate – Shipping & Transport Disputes (6+ PQE)
Location: Edinburgh (Hybrid)
Employment Type: Permanent
Practice Area: Shipping, Transport & Insurance Disputes
A highly regarded UK law firm is seeking an Associate or Senior Associate (6+ PQE) to join its top‑tier Shipping & Transport disputes practice. This is an excellent opportunity for a lawyer with a genuine interest in the marine, energy or transport sectors to develop a long-term specialism within a market-leading team.
The Role
You will advise a broad range of UK and international clients operating across the shipping and transport industries. The work is varied and intellectually interesting, combining complex disputes with regulatory and advisory matters. While the role is predominantly contentious, there is scope to develop non-contentious and transactional experience over time.
Key areas of work include:
* Handling commercial and insurance disputes arising from marine, offshore and transport incidents
* Defending high-value personal injury and other litigated claims
* Advising on marine regulatory and health & safety matters
* Acting for insurers, P&I Clubs, vessel operators, ports and offshore energy clients
* Advocacy in the Sheriff Court and other forums (depending on qualification and experience)
* Working with counsel on Court of Session matters
* Exposure to arbitration, mediation and other ADR processes
* Supporting clients during on-site incident investigations when required
The role offers international exposure, with opportunities to work on matters extending beyond Scotland.
Candidate Profile
You will be:
* A qualified solicitor in Scotland or England & Wales
* 6+ years’ PQE (Associate or Senior Associate level)
* Experienced in disputes, ideally with exposure to insurance, commercial or regulatory work
* Interested in (or already working within) the shipping, transport, marine or energy sectors
* Confident managing your own caseload and advising clients at senior stakeholder level
Prior shipping or marine experience is advantageous but not essential. Strong training and support will be provided for candidates looking to specialise.
What’s on Offer
* High-quality, complex work within a Band 1–ranked specialist team
* Clear progression pathways and long-term career development
* Strong client contact and business development opportunities
* A collaborative, supportive culture with real investment in training
* Exposure to high-profile and technically challenging matters
* Competitive remuneration and benefits
Why Apply?
This is a rare opportunity to build a specialist disputes practice in a buoyant sector, working closely with recognised experts and blue‑chip clients. The firm is known for its inclusive culture, flexible working approach and commitment to professional development.
To find out more, please contact Jill Cowan on 07931 811 330 or email