S6 pupils were given an insightful look into the realities of a legal career this week as Erin Grieve, Class of ‘08, returned to the College to discuss her current Devil role with the Faculty of Advocates.  Discussing the pathway she has taken since leaving school, Erin highlighted the wide-ranging opportunities a law degree can offer.

During her talk, Erin emphasised that law is a useful and flexible degree, noting that it does not restrict graduates to becoming solicitors or advocates. Pupils were encouraged not to be put off if they are unsure about practising as a lawyer, as the skills gained can open doors to many different professions.

In 2018, Erin moved to Edinburgh and specialised in Sports Law.  Her employer Addleshaw Goddard had strong links to sport, which aligned with her own personal interests. She highlighted the importance of self-belief and initiative, telling pupils that success ultimately depends on them. “Back yourself,” she advised, encouraging students to put themselves forward, say yes to opportunities, and pursue areas they are genuinely interested in. In 2021 Erin was ranked as a Leading Associate for Sport in Scotland by the Legal 500. 

Following her career overview and insights, Erin opened the floor to questions, to allow pupils to discuss any aspect of Law or Erin’s own views on her profession.   When asked whether she had completed a Scots Law degree, Erin confirmed that she had, adding that whilst it is helpful to consider where you might want to work beyond education, there are access courses for practising in England and vice versa.

When asked whether becoming an advocate had always been her goal, Erin explained that in 2020 she completed the solicitor advocate course after realising she enjoyed court work. She described the role of an advocate as focusing on litigation without the administrative burden of client meetings and paperwork.  Erin added that her role is consistently busy and unpredictable, with no two days the same. Although characterising litigation as “a purchase no one wants to make“ it is a highly engaging and rewarding career.

Erin also offered practical advice to pupils considering the Bar. While it is possible to go straight to the Bar from university, Erin recommended gaining experience and building contacts first, as the Bar is self-employed and relies heavily on professional networks.

Considering the ethics around AI and its place within Law, Erin acknowledged that while AI has benefits, it also presents serious risks. She warned that AI-generated work can be inaccurate, with legislation misquoted and even fake citations and cases invented. As a result, she stressed that technical legal work produced by AI cannot be fully trusted.

Finally, Erin tackled a challenging ethical question about defending cases one might personally disagree with. She explained that lawyers are not their clients and that everyone has a right to a fair trial. The role of the defence, she said, is not to seek acquittal at all costs, but to ensure that the Crown’s case is properly tested.

The visit provided S6 pupils with a realistic and motivating insight into legal careers, highlighting both the challenges and the wide-ranging possibilities that a law degree can offer.  With core skills in problem solving, analysing and writing, studying Law can open doors to a wealth of possible career paths and progression far beyond the courtroom.

We are extremely thankful to Erin for sharing her honest and engaging experiences - her visit provided S6 pupils with a realistic and motivating insight into legal careers, highlighting both the challenges and the wide-ranging possibilities that a law degree can offer.  With core skills in problem solving, analysing and writing, studying Law can open doors to a wealth of possible career paths and progression far beyond the courtroom.