Andrew Murray Signature Prize

Win £1,000 and make a name for yourself with one of Scotland’s leading private client firms

Murray Beith Murray is proud to launch the Andrew Murray Signature Prize — an annual essay competition created to recognise exceptional legal talent and to champion the next generation of lawyers in Scotland.

Prize Highlights

  • £1,000 prize award
  • Guaranteed interview for a legal traineeship with Murray Beith Murray
  • Publication in the Journal of the Law Society of Scotland

 

The Brief

This year’s question invites students to tackle one of the biggest issues facing the legal profession today:
How can a heritage private client legal practice, built on multigenerational trusted relationships, integrate artificial intelligence in a way that enhances client service and commercial sustainability, without undermining professional judgement, confidentiality, or the human dimensions of trust?

 

Why Apply?

For students looking to strengthen their profile, contribute fresh thinking to an important legal debate, and stand out in a competitive profession, this is an opportunity to:

  • Demonstrate clear legal thinking on a timely and complex issue
  • Gain recognition through publication in a leading legal journal
  • Enhance your prospects for a future legal traineeship

 

Who can enter?

You can enter if you:

  • Are enrolled in an undergraduate or postgraduate law degree, or Diploma in Professional Legal Practice in a recognised Scottish institution during the 2025-26 or 2026-27 academic year; and
  • have successfully completed, or are on track to complete, the Diploma in Professional Legal Practice by 2028 and are likely to be eligible to commence a legal traineeship in Scotland from September 2028.

 

Key Dates

  • Competition opens: Wednesday, 1 July 2026
  • Submission deadline: Friday, 7 August 2026 at 5:00pm
  • Winner notification: The prize to be awarded on 16th September 2026 at a special reception in Edinburgh’s Signet Library.

 

About the Prize

The Andrew Murray Signature Prize launches alongside Murray Beith Murray’s new website and refreshed brand. Founded in Edinburgh in 1849, the firm is known for its distinguished private client practice, long-standing client relationships, and commitment to trusted legal advice across generations. The prize reflects that heritage while looking confidently to the future of the profession.

 

How to Enter

To enter, submit your essay by uploading your entry via the form below.

Please make sure your entry is submitted by the deadline and complies with the competition Terms and Conditions.

FAQs

  1. What is the word count? 1,000 to 1,500 words (max).
  1. Can I use artificial intelligence to assist in the drafting of my essay? No. Your entry must be your own original work.
  1. Can I enter if I have recently completed my studies but was enrolled during 2025/26 or 2026/27? Yes.
  1. Do I have to pay to enter the competition? No. Entry is free.
  1. Can I use an essay which has been submitted as part of my studies? No. The essay must not have been submitted for academic credit.