Solicitor - NQ - 2 years. in Belfast

We are looking for ambitious and motivated Newly Qualified solicitors up to 2 years PQE to join a growing and dynamic litigation team within a leading Northern Ireland defence firm. Since its inception in 2019, Keoghs NI has experienced consistent year-on-year growth, offering an excellent platform for early-career solicitors to develop high-quality litigation experience while working with an insurance industry leader and a diverse portfolio of UK-wide clients. This role is ideal for a solicitor seeking hands‑on responsibility, structured development, and the opportunity to build strong client relationships within a supportive and collaborative environment.

Key Responsibilities

• Manage a varied caseload of litigated matters with appropriate supervision and mentoring.
• Support the delivery of a high-quality service to key litigation clients, ensuring agreed service standards are met.
• Develop and maintain effective working relationships with clients and colleagues, including attendance at client meetings where appropriate.
• Assist in raising the profile of Keoghs NI within the litigation market through knowledge‑sharing, training, and marketing initiatives such as articles or blogs.
• Contribute to tender submissions and client pitches as required.
• Assist in the development and implementation of strategies to respond to and manage opponent behaviours.

Why Join Keoghs NI?

• Strong growth and stability: Keoghs NI has grown consistently since 2019, offering long‑term career opportunities within a well‑established and respected firm.
• Early responsibility with support: You will gain hands‑on litigation experience from the outset, with close supervision, mentoring, and access to experienced practitioners.
• Career development: Clear progression pathways, ongoing training, and opportunities to broaden your skillset within a market‑leading defence practice.
• Client exposure: Direct interaction with key insurance clients, helping you develop commercial awareness and strong client‑handling skills early in your career.
• Collaborative culture: A supportive, inclusive team environment that values knowledge‑sharing, teamwork, and professional development.
• Flexible working: A hybrid working model that supports work‑life balance.

Working Hours

35 Hours per week – Hybrid working. Primary location for this role is the Belfast office.

Skills, Knowledge & Expertise

Essential:

• Newly Qualified solicitor up to 2 years PQE with experience of litigation, including defendant work.
• Strong organisational skills with the ability to manage competing priorities effectively.
• Excellent attention to detail and a proactive approach to problem‑solving.
• Experience of working with case management systems.

Desirable:

• Experience of working within an insurance‑focused litigation practice.
• A collaborative mindset with a proven ability to work effectively as part of a team.
• Interest in business development, client engagement, and contributing to wider team initiatives.

Job Benefits

• 25 days holiday per year which increases with level of service (opportunity to buy & sell 3 days).
• Simply Health Care Cash Plan.
• WeCare – 24/7 online GP, mental health support and virtual wellbeing covering a whole host of topics to do with health, mental health, wellbeing & healthy living and financial & legal wellbeing.
• Death In Service – after 1 years’ service.
• Pension Contribution based 5% Employee / 3% Employer.
• Cycle to Work Scheme*.
• Tech Scheme*.
• Season Ticket Loan*.
• Gym Flex*.
• Access to Online Discount Sites.
• Discounted Gourmet Society Membership.
• Discounted Tickets for Merlin Attractions nationwide.
• Discounts at local retail outlets.

*after successfully completing probation.