Simon Catto, Class of 90, returned to the College to close this year’s S6 Lecture Series, offering pupils a candid insight into the pressures, rewards and realities of a career in law.

Simon, a senior litigation lawyer, began by describing the inherently adversarial nature of litigation. “There is always someone in another office trying to stop you doing exactly what you’re doing,” he explained, noting that stress and pressure are unavoidable aspects of the job. Despite this, he emphasised that success in court can be “fantastic” and deeply rewarding.

His interest in litigation first developed during work experience at Aberdeen Sheriff Court, where he realised early on that courtroom advocacy was the path he wanted to pursue. He later studied law at the University of Edinburgh, highlighting that a law degree can open doors far beyond the legal profession, including careers in finance and accountancy. A pivotal moment came in his third year, when he secured a three-month internship with a federal judge in Boston. “That really cemented my decision to go into litigation,” he said.

After graduating, he spent seven years at Ledingham Chalmers in Aberdeen before moving to Edinburgh to focus on larger, multi-million-pound cases in the Court of Session. He described the historic court building, which is over 300 years old, as a fitting backdrop for some of Scotland’s most significant legal disputes. Simon’s career progressed into leadership roles, including heading a division at HBJ Gateley, where he became involved in high-profile football cases, working with multiple clubs. Following the firm’s merger with Addleshaw Goddard, his work expanded to include large-scale procurement disputes and complex commercial litigation.

Among the highlights of his career was his first appearance addressing counsel in the Court of Session. However, he also spoke candidly about the challenges, including the difficulty of losing cases and dealing with demanding clients. “You need a certain steeliness,” he advised. He shared a particularly intense experience during one case, where a decision deadline required 12 to 18 months of work to be condensed into just five days. “We worked day and night,” he recalled. “It was stressful, but enjoyable - there was great teamwork and camaraderie.”

Much of his work involves owner-managed businesses, where cases can directly impact family livelihoods. This, he noted, adds an extra layer of responsibility and pressure.

Turning to career advice, Simon outlined the competitive nature of securing a traineeship at Addleshaw Goddard, which recruits around 20 trainees each year. The process includes video submissions, assessments and interviews, with a strong emphasis on preparation and extracurricular involvement. Even securing a two-week summer placement requires significant effort and research.

During the Q&A session, S6 pupils asked about legal education pathways and career development. He explained that a Scots Law degree is essential for those wishing to undertake a traineeship in Scotland, and advised students to carefully consider joint degrees as they may limit study time for core subjects. When asked about balancing management with legal work, he stressed the importance of staying involved in cases. “I like to know that what I’m asking others to do is something I would do or have done myself,” he said.

Reflecting on failure, he encouraged resilience: “Dust yourself off and think practically about how to move forward.” He also emphasised the value of being present in the workplace, particularly early in a career, noting that visibility and learning from colleagues are crucial.

The visit provided pupils with a rare and honest perspective on life as a litigation lawyer - one defined by challenge, intensity and, ultimately, reward.

This year there have been many highlights amongst our S6 Lecture Series - with former pupils returning  to Aberdeen  from around the UK to instill their expertise and advice to pupils. Inspiring not only future pathway choices, but reminding pupils of the power of the Gordonian alumni network.  

The College is grateful to all of this year’s speakers, whose generosity in sharing their time, expertise and experiences has made a lasting impression on S6 pupils as they prepare to leave school, while highlighting the enduring strength of the Gordonian community.