The Gilson Gray journey

Since our launch in 2014, Gilson Gray has quickly grown into one of Scotland’s most prominent and modern law firms, with offices in Edinburgh, Glasgow, Aberdeen, Dundee, North Berwick and more recently in England. Our success comes from a clear vision and purpose, reaching many key milestones along the way. The road ahead is exciting, and we are looking for future trainees who want to come on this journey with us. 

We offer a strong foundation as a starting point, where you will be able to achieve your own aspirations, build a career, and stay with us throughout the course of it. 

Gilson Gray applications for our Traineeship programme will open on 2nd December 2024. 

The traineeship Step by Step Guide:

Gilson Gray’s direction is shaped by our values, and it’s essential that our trainees are the right fit for us, as we are for them. We seek candidates who align with our values, are authentic, and can represent the firm positively from day one. 

There are seven key steps on the route to traineeship with Gilson Gray: 

Step 1 – Your application 

Our selection process is unique, it goes beyond academic achievements. We want to know: 

• Why did you choose law, and what areas interest you most?
• Why are you a good fit as a trainee, solicitor, and future partner at Gilson Gray?
• What makes you stand out? Your personality and attitude are just as crucial as your skills.

Step 2 – Interview

Successful applicants will be invited to interview, either in person or via Zoom, where you will meet members of our Trainee Selection Committee and rising stars within the firm. 

Step 3 – Internship

Selected candidates will be invited to join us in the office for an internship inthe first half of 2026, where you will gain insight into life as a Gilson Gray Trainee. The internship will give you the opportunity to gain experience working with different departments across the firm, and responsibility to directly work on matters with our clients.At the end, you will present your insights and what you have learned about Gilson Gray, our values and unique opportunities. This is a fantastic opportunity to showcase yourself and what you have learned, this presentation could lead to a traineeship offer. 

Step 4 – Two-year traineeship

After you have completed your internship, we will make traineeship offers.  You will have already had the chance to indicate which of our two traineeship paths interests you most: 

• General Traineeship: Our general traineeship involves a four-seat rotation across a range of legal departments. You will spend six months in each seat where you will gain insight and experience in these departments, with a view to considering your chosen specialism to qualify into. 

• Single Seat Traineeship: This traineeship offers a single seat in the selected department – giving you the opportunity to gain experience and in-depth specialist knowledge in this area of law. 

Step 5 – Experience different seats

The traineeship at Gilson Gray is immersive. From day one, you will work directly with clients on real cases, collaborating with partners and team members to learn, contribute, and share your insights on legal matters.  

You will receive a full induction into the firm and the traineeship, along with a Buddy—a former trainee—who will help you to settle in.  

You will also be invited to attend TCPD events, join our Young Professionals group, and participate in committees like Social and Wellness. As a valued member of the firm, you will be adding value to your chosen area of law even before you qualify. 

Final Steps

Becoming a qualified solicitor is just the beginning. We recruit with long-term retention in mind, focusing on developing our future leaders. You will be given ongoing support to continue developing your career to where your aspirations and ability can take you. 

Does the Gilson Gray traineeship sound like the right route for you?

You can learn more about our award-winning firm and why we might be the right firm to take you on the journey of your career by visiting our About us page.

Keep an eye out on our social media channels for insights into life as a Gilson Gray trainee, as well as useful tips for your application.