David Fairnie

Following my retiral as a director as from 28th February 2023, I continue to work on a contracting basis.

My work is primarily in the field of litigation and involves preparation for and attendance at court and tribunal hearings, client attendances and liaison with Counsel and external agencies e.g area licensing board.

I handle casework autonomously and generate my own correspondence and documents.

I provide 'internal' advice for colleagues who may be unfamiliar with areas of law and practice where I have developed expertise over 30+ years in the legal profession.

I am a confident and persuasive advocate.

I represent clients with diverse needs in a wide range cases but have an especial interest in criminal and family law.

I worked in this senior position in a busy general rural practice handling a diverse range of challenging legal and managerial tasks including:-

• Representation and advocacy in criminal and civil court cases and tribunals
• Commercial and business law advice
• Participated in meetings to negotiate with opposing solicitors and parties.
• Interviewed and advised clients regarding legal procedures for cases.
• Customised letters, contracts and documents to meet client needs.
• Drafted wills and tax planning documents for clients.
• Trained and provided guidance to junior solicitors and paralegals.
• Prepared title deeds and leases for clients renting or buying properties.
• Referred clients to other solicitors specialising in specific cases.
• Corresponded with Counsel regarding cases going to court.
• Proposed and agreed terms of engagement and generated invoicing for work carried out
• Attended board meetings and contributed to practice management and business development
• Oversaw advertising and business development
• Familiarised with compliance and regulatory framework and requirements for handling client funds and accounts
• Good knowledge of client identification/ Anti money-laundering requirements

• Head of legal department comprising c20 solicitors and support staff within a 'most-purpose' local government setting.
• Participated in senior management team.
• Prepared and presented legal reports to council and council committees.
• Provided internal legal advice
• Represented council in a range of court and tribunal proceedings
• Instructed external Counsel
• Acted as Clerk to Area Licensing Board- included visiting and inspecting licensed premises.
• Legal adviser to Fostering and Adoption Panel
• Member of Council's Emergency Planning Team