“Matthew Paton has built an impressive foundation for a career in commercial law, combining outstanding academic achievement with broad practical experience across corporate finance, pensions, financial services and property. His thoughtful approach, commercial awareness and ability to engage with complex legal and regulatory issues reflect a lawyer who is committed to delivering advice that is both technically sound and commercially relevant. With a strong focus on continual development and client service, Matthew is establishing the qualities that define an exceptional legal professional.”

Fantastic Lawyers® Editorial 2026

Matthew Paton is a Trainee Solicitor at Morton Fraser MacRoberts in Edinburgh. His traineeship has given him experience across corporate finance, pensions and share schemes, financial services and property in pensions, together with a secondment to Lloyds Banking Group.

He currently works in Property in Pensions, an area involving the legal and practical issues that arise when commercial property is acquired, held or managed through pension arrangements. His experience across several connected practice areas gives him a developing understanding of how legal, property, funding and regulatory considerations interact in commercial transactions.

What Matthew Paton Does

Matthew has gained experience across a range of business and financial services matters, including:

• Property held through pension arrangements
• Pensions and share schemes
• Corporate finance
• Banking and financial services
• Commercial property matters
• Financial services regulation
• Legal research and analysis
• Client and transaction support

His traineeship has included four distinct seats: Corporate Finance, Pensions and Share Schemes, a secondment to Lloyds Banking Group, and Property in Pensions. This breadth of experience has allowed him to see legal matters from both private practice and in-house perspectives.

Why He Stands Out

Matthew combines exceptional academic achievement with a clear interest in commercial law and financial services. He graduated with First Class Honours from Edinburgh Napier University and received the Class Medal as the top-performing student in his year.

He then completed the Diploma in Professional Legal Practice at the University of Edinburgh, achieving A grades across every subject and an overall mark of 80 per cent. His studies included banking law, employment law, corporate finance, conveyancing, private client work, civil and criminal court practice, company and commercial law, and financial services.

This academic foundation is supported by practical experience across several commercially important areas, giving Matthew a strong platform for advising businesses, pension trustees and professional clients as his career develops.

Developing Expertise in Pensions and Property

Matthew’s current work focuses on Property in Pensions. This specialist area can involve commercial property transactions connected with pension schemes, requiring careful consideration of property law, pensions rules, funding arrangements and regulatory requirements.

His previous seat within the Pensions and Share Schemes team gave him broader exposure to pension-related legal issues. He has also contributed to commentary on changes affecting the Local Government Pension Scheme in Scotland, including the treatment of exit credits for employers, contractors and third sector organisations.

Financial Services and Regulatory Insight

Matthew has shown a particular interest in financial services regulation and the impact of technology on regulated businesses. He has contributed to articles examining the Financial Conduct Authority’s proposed targeted support regime and the potential future impact of artificial intelligence on retail finance.

His work has considered issues such as the Consumer Duty, access to financial advice, algorithmic bias, competition, fraud and the changing structure of financial markets. This demonstrates an ability to engage with developing areas of regulation and explain their significance in a clear and practical way.

Commercial and In-House Experience

Matthew’s traineeship began with a Corporate Finance seat before progressing to Pensions and Share Schemes. He also completed a secondment with Lloyds Banking Group, gaining first-hand experience of working within a major financial institution.

This combination of law firm and in-house experience has helped him develop an understanding of the commercial pressures faced by clients, including the need for clear advice, efficient delivery and solutions that work in practice rather than only on paper.

Education and Professional Achievements

Matthew holds a First Class LLB from Edinburgh Napier University, where he was awarded the Class Medal for Top Student. He later completed the Diploma in Professional Legal Practice at the University of Edinburgh with A grades in every subject.

His academic record reflects consistent excellence across both theoretical and practical legal study, particularly in commercial, banking, financial services and property-related subjects.

Leadership and Community Involvement

Before beginning his legal career, Matthew served as a Member of both the Scottish Youth Parliament and the UK Youth Parliament. He was also an Officer Cadet with the Royal Air Force Volunteer Reserve and volunteered with Ayrshire Hospice.

These roles demonstrate a longstanding interest in leadership, public service and community involvement, together with the interpersonal skills required to work effectively with colleagues and clients.