At just 26, I’ve become one of the youngest female advocates in Scotland—something I still find surreal every time I step into court. What makes my path even more unusual is that I now specialise in both criminal and family law, a rare combination in the world of Scottish advocacy. But then again, nothing about my legal journey has been typical.
Forging My Own Path to the Bar
The conventional route to becoming an advocate in Scotland generally involves years spent practising as a solicitor before applying to the Faculty of Advocates and undertaking the intense “devilling” period of training. Many see it as a necessary rite of passage—a way to build credibility, courtroom experience, and legal depth.
But I took a different route.
After finishing my studies at the University of Strathclyde, I completed a traineeship at a solicitor’s office, as is required. But instead of remaining in practice as a solicitor for years, I decided to apply to join the Faculty of Advocates at the earliest possible opportunity.
This choice meant facing the devilling exams and training without the cushion of years of solicitor experience. But, having just completed my studies, I found the momentum and structure of academic-style preparation suited me. There were no long gaps in my legal routine—just a direct, if challenging, continuation of the learning process.
Devilling Without Delay
Devilling—the Faculty’s demanding nine-month training course for aspiring advocates—was no small undertaking. It involves both classroom instruction and close mentoring with experienced advocates.
Because I hadn’t built up years in a solicitor’s role, I initially wondered if I might be at a disadvantage. I quickly realised I wasn’t. The Faculty’s training programme is designed to sharpen advocacy skills from all backgrounds, and I found the environment supportive and rigorous in equal measure.
I also had the good fortune of being awarded the Lord Hope Scholarship, one of several funding awards administered by the Faculty of Advocates. These scholarships are designed to help those from financially constrained or underrepresented backgrounds. Quite simply, I couldn’t have afforded to devil without it.
I would strongly encourage others—especially those who may hesitate due to financial uncertainty—to explore this path. Help exists.
Finding My Dual Calling
Initially, my plan was to pursue a career solely in criminal law, an area I’d felt drawn to since university. However, during my traineeship, I was introduced to family law—and unexpectedly, I loved it.
As I began my devilling training, I intentionally spent much of my time shadowing a senior family law advocate. That decision turned out to be pivotal. I discovered that both criminal and family law presented unique challenges and rewards, and today I split my time between the two.
The combination keeps me intellectually and emotionally engaged—no two days are alike. Family law often requires a different kind of emotional sensitivity and legal dexterity than criminal work, and I enjoy having the range and variety that comes with balancing both.
From Stranraer to the Bar
My journey began in a classroom at Stranraer Academy, where I first became fascinated with post-WWII international criminal law. That subject—dealing with war crimes and the evolution of modern justice—sparked something in me. I knew then that I wanted to pursue law, and more importantly, that I wanted to advocate on behalf of others.
It’s strange to look back now, knowing how far I’ve come in what feels like a short time. The Bar still feels like a world of tradition and legacy—but it’s also one where change is happening. Young women, people from working-class backgrounds, and those with non-traditional journeys are being welcomed, mentored, and elevated.
Now that I’m a member of the Faculty of Advocates, I’m also involved in outreach work, helping support and encourage other young people—especially those from less represented backgrounds—who are considering this career path.
A Home at the Bar for Everyone
If there’s one thing I’ve learned, it’s that there is no one-size-fits-all path to becoming an advocate in Scotland. Whether you take the traditional route or a more direct approach, there is space for your ambition, your talent, and your perspective.
The Faculty of Advocates is changing, and I hope stories like mine can show others that this world is not closed off, but open—especially to those bold enough to take an unconventional path.
