At a Glance
- Tasks: Join our team as a Disputes Associate, handling exciting commercial litigation cases.
- Company: A&O Shearman is a leading global law firm with a collaborative culture.
- Benefits: Enjoy flexible working with up to 40% remote options and great corporate perks.
- Other info: We are an equal opportunities employer committed to diversity and inclusion.
- Why this job: Work on high-profile cases while developing your career in a supportive environment.
- Qualifications: Qualified lawyer with 3+ years in commercial litigation; strong skills required.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
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Associate – Disputes & Investigations, Belfast
Location: Belfast, United Kingdom
Job Category: Other
EU work permit required: Yes
Job Reference: de5a489144b2
Job Views: 17
Posted: 12.08.2025
Expiry Date: 26.09.2025
Job Description:
We have an exciting opportunity for a disputes associate to join our growing Advanced Delivery Legal department, based in the A&O Shearman Belfast office.
A&O Shearman Belfast plays an increasing role in delivering important elements of major litigation cases and transactions, as well as in coordinating teams of lawyers from around the world. It is a key part of A&O Shearman’s advanced delivery of legal services, utilizing technology and complementing traditional law services globally. We foster a collaborative culture where talented individuals can flourish and achieve great things.
Our Disputes practice handles a wide range of corporate and commercial disputes, including competition and antitrust litigation, derivatives and structured finance disputes, insolvency and restructuring litigation, class actions, insurance litigation, securities litigation, and M&A disputes. We are also at the forefront of emerging disputes related to sustainability/ESG, data, cyber-security, fintech, and digitalisation. Our litigators work seamlessly with transactional and advisory teams, providing market expertise and product knowledge to give clients an edge and help pre-empt potential risks.
We seek a highly skilled and experienced commercial disputes lawyer to join our Belfast office. This role offers the opportunity to work on London-based cases and develop your career through exposure to complex, high-profile cases with a global reach, all while based in Belfast.
As a Disputes Associate, you will be part of our London Litigation & Investigations team, working on high-value litigation and investigations. We welcome applications from candidates with three or more years of experience in commercial litigation.
What you will do
- Involvement in commercial litigation
- Drafting and amending documentation and court pleadings
- Preparing clients for court proceedings and trials
- Drafting expert evidence and witness statements
- Providing legal advice
- Liaising with clients and attending meetings
- Managing client expectations
- Business development
- Legal research
What you will have
- Qualified lawyer with at least 3 years’ PQE, preferably from a global or City law firm
- Experience in commercial litigation or disputes
- Strong legal, drafting, negotiation, and project management skills
- Detail-oriented and self-motivated
- Excellent client relationship and interpersonal skills
- Strong organizational skills with the ability to meet multiple deadlines
- Focus on business development and personal profile building
- Experience in high-value commercial litigation and investigations is preferred
We support flexible working and embrace hybrid arrangements, allowing remote work up to 40%, with in-office work for the remaining 60% to foster collaboration and growth.
If you need additional support during the recruitment process due to a disability or health condition, please contact our recruitment team for adjustments.
We are an equal opportunities employer and do not discriminate based on race, color, sex, religion, sexual orientation, national origin, disability, or other protected characteristics.
If this role isn\'t suitable, explore other opportunities on our careers portal at A&O Shearman Careers and join our Talent Network for updates on future openings.
#J-18808-LjbffrAssociate – Disputes & Investigations in Belfast employer: Allen & Overy
A&O Shearman Belfast is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work environment where talented individuals can thrive in the field of commercial disputes. With a strong emphasis on collaboration and innovation, employees benefit from exposure to high-profile cases while enjoying flexible working arrangements that promote work-life balance. The firm is committed to professional development, providing ample opportunities for growth and advancement within a supportive and inclusive culture.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Associate – Disputes & Investigations in Belfast
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We think you need these skills to ace Associate – Disputes & Investigations in Belfast
Some tips for your application 🫡
Highlight Your Legal Knowledge:When applying for a full-time role in legal services at Allen & Overy, make sure to demonstrate your understanding of key legal principles and areas of law relevant to the position. Include any specific coursework, modules, or certifications, like LPC or BPTC qualifications, that showcase your legal expertise directly on your CV.
Showcase Your Research Skills:In the legal field, strong research skills are crucial. Use your application to illustrate how you've utilised these skills in past studies or work experiences – whether that's through past internships or significant projects. Mention any legal databases or tools you’re proficient in, as this can give you an edge.
Tailor That Cover Letter!:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Make it personal by expressing your genuine interest in Allen & Overy and the specific role of Associate – Disputes & Investigations. Talk about why you want to be part of their team, how your unique experiences align with their values, and why you’re passionate about the legal sector.
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How to prepare for a job interview at Allen & Overy
✨Know Your Legal Principles
Brush up on foundational legal principles relevant to the specific area of law you’re applying for, whether it’s corporate, criminal, or family law. We might get asked situational questions to test your knowledge, so being articulate about key concepts will make you stand out.
✨Be Ready for Case Studies
Full-time legal roles often involve case studies during interviews. Prepare to analyse a hypothetical case and discuss your approach to it. Practising this with a peer or mentor can help us refine our reasoning and articulate a solid legal argument.
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