Careers & Employability

Hear from former Law student Sir Iain Livingstone, former Chief Constable, Police Scotland, talking about his career journey, the opportunities available to students studying a Law degree and why Aberdeen has been - and will continue to be - a very special place for him.

Former University of Aberdeen law student Chris Garden, Legal Director, Shepherd and Wedderburn talks about all things insolvency, commercial disputes and regulation.

Former University of Aberdeen law student Fran Hutchison, Legal Manager, INEOS FPS went from a law degree to working on complex contracts such as the Forties pipeline system, the project that brings in approximately 35% of the UK’s oil and gas from the North Sea.

Latasha Kirimbai, Trainee Solicitor within the Thorntons Law intellectual property team, explains how a law degree from the University of Aberdeen helped shape her aspirations to work across corporate and commercial law, internationally.

Nathan Corr, Trainee Solicitor, Addleshaw Goddard, explains how a law degree from the University of Aberdeen helped his career journey and led him to become founder of education company, Law School 2.0.

Molly O'Donoghue, a second year trainee solicitor at Brodies LLP talks to us about doing a split seat in corporate and employment law.

What programme did you study?

“I studied the LLB with English law. When I embarked on my academic journey, I was uncertain about my career path in the legal field. However, I opted for law as a legal education helps to build essential competencies, including critical thinking, analysis, problem-solving, and effective time management. These skills hold significance irrespective of what job you end up doing.”

What type of work are you involved in, at your current firm?

“The corporate work I am involved with is primarily acquisitions of businesses. However, I have also worked on incorporations, mergers, corporate restructuring, corporate governance matters, management buyouts and buy-ins, joint venture arrangements, share buy-backs and reviewing/drafting company constitutions and shareholders' and investment agreements. In employment, I have had exposure to transactional work (for instance, advising on employment due diligence, drafting employment provisions in documents such as asset or share purchase agreements, advising on the effect of TUPE on relevant business transfers and service provision changes, and post-completion harmonisation of terms and conditions of employment) and contentious work (for instance, preparing for and attending tribunals in relation to employment-related claims).

We work for clients across a variety of sectors, including oil and gas, renewables, transport, infrastructure, food and drink, technology, manufacturing, and real estate.

As corporate lawyers, we play an important role in safeguarding a company's legal interests, managing risks, ensuring compliance, and facilitating business transactions. Our expertise helps corporations operate within the law while navigating the complex legal landscape of the business world.

As employment lawyers, we help to protect both employers' and employees' rights and interests, maintain a legally compliant workplace, prevent disputes, and foster a positive work environment. Our expertise is crucial in navigating the vast amount of employment laws and regulations to promote fair and ethical employment practices.”

Why are you passionate about your role?

“I am passionate about my work because I enjoy helping clients navigate complex issues. Whether it's solving tricky legal problems or negotiating deals, it feels great to know I've played a part in getting a favourable outcome for our clients. I'm also lucky to work with two amazing teams. They've trained me well and given me more responsibility than I expected as a trainee. This means I'm learning a lot every day, and that's something I really enjoy about my job.”

Tell us about your experience studying law at University of Aberdeen?

“I truly believe that my time at the University of Aberdeen has played a crucial role in shaping my journey to where I am today. The teaching quality is exceptional, and the faculty is incredibly supportive. The courses are engaging and encouraged me to explore different areas of law with an open mind. During my undergraduate and postgraduate studies, I had valuable opportunities to teach and conduct research. These experiences have helped me develop essential skills like clear communication and simplifying complex ideas, which are vital for excelling as a lawyer.”

What advice would you give to prospective students?

“Research different areas of law to understand the variety of specialisations available. Find the aspects that resonate with you the most and align with your career aspirations. Consider whether you want to practise law, work in academia, or pursue a different career then tailor your education and experiences accordingly. It is also helpful to try to gain practical experience, for example, through placements. Real-world exposure will offer insights into the day-to-day realities of legal practice.”