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- Tasks: Handle high-quality family law cases and mentor team members.
- Company: Join a top-tier law firm with a strong reputation in family law.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, supportive environment, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in family law while developing your career.
- Qualifications: Extensive legal knowledge and experience in family law required.
- Other info: Dynamic workplace focused on teamwork and client relationships.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
Overview
At Debenhams Ottaway the client and our people are always at the heart of what we do. This is an exciting opportunity for an ambitious Senior Associate to join our highly reputable Family team. The team has been ranked Tier 1 in Legal 500, Band 1 in the Chamber and Partners UK 2025 and ranked in Chambers High Net Worth Guide 2025.
Key Responsibilities
- Activities will be varied and will include, but are not limited to the following:
- Undertaking a range of high-quality family work including complex marital finance matters, divorce & civil partnership dissolution, pre & post nuptial agreements, international relocation and issues around children;
- Working with other lawyers in the practice to achieve the firm\’s objectives, including promoting the successful cross-selling of work;
- Supervising and developing members of the team as appropriate.
- Demonstrate high standards of commitment to the delivery of budgets/KPIs as appropriate, and produce fees in accordance with the personal fee target set at the beginning of each financial year.
- Take appropriate client instructions and progress the matter to completion in accordance with the firm’s standards and where appropriate, precedents.
- Observe the code of practice in all areas as detailed in the Solicitors Code of Conduct and to observe fully the requirements of the Solicitors Accounts Rules.
- Maximise and improve client relationships within the firm by providing a courteous and efficient service to clients.
- Monitor developments in the legal market and local area which might provide business opportunities that may be exploited through business development activity or pose problems for the Firm in the future.
- Develop practice by attracting and winning quality new business that is challenging and profitable.
- Create a positive work environment that encourages teamwork, cooperation and collaboration between and within departments.
- With the TLs identify and nurture future talent in line with the Firm’s career framework.
- Act as a role model for others and demonstrate an ability to balance fee-earning and non-fee-earning work.
- Have and inspire in others pride in the Firm.
- Aid in fostering a departmental team spirit by encouraging, supporting, coaching and motivating staff in the department.
Skills and attributes:
- Extensive knowledge, experience, skills of and passion for their field of legal expertise.
- Knowledge of relevant legal market and latest developments.
- Knowledge of the Solicitor’s Code of Conduct, Solicitors Accounts Rules and any relevant quality mark.
- Understanding of relevant financial data and how it relates to the performance of their team and the firm.
- Ability to think strategically in planning for long-term financial growth of the firm.
- Experience of networking and other business development activities.
- Ability to provide support and supervision to a mix of professional staff
- Adopts a client-centred focus at all times taking responsibility for the level of client service in the firm and proactive steps to maximize and improve client relationships.
- Creative problem-solving ability
- Able to make complex decisions under pressure
- Willingness to be flexible in approach
- Organization, planning and prioritization skills
- Clear oral and written communication skills with an ability to engage effectively with a range of individuals, both within and outside the organisation
- High standards of professionalism and honesty
- Socially confident
- Demonstrates persistence and drive
A little more about Debenhams Ottaway
Debenhams Ottaway is a progressive law firm with a long history and a reputation built on providing outstanding service and legal advice. Based in the heart of St Albans with a London presence, we help individuals, families and businesses in Hertfordshire, London and across the UK.
We believe passionately in building long term relationships with our clients and people. Our teams of talented and ambitious people work together to help clients succeed. This is an opportunity to join an exciting and demanding work environment that offers support and guidance to help everyone achieve their best. Our career framework provides the opportunity to learn and develop in a structured but flexible way.
If you have the energy and imagination to make a difference and share our values, then Debenhams Ottaway is the perfect fit for your next challenge.
This job description is an operational document that does not form part of any contract of employment.
There may be times when an individual is expected to perform tasks that are not be expressly stated in the job description but are necessary in the day-to-day performance of their duties.
The job description may be amended as necessary to meet the changing needs of the firm.
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Senior Associate Solicitor (Family) - 1-year fixed term (maternity cover) employer: Debenhams Ottaway LLP
Contact Detail:
Debenhams Ottaway LLP Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior Associate Solicitor (Family) - 1-year fixed term (maternity cover)
✨Network Like a Pro
Get out there and connect with people in the legal field! Attend networking events, join relevant groups, and don’t be shy about reaching out to former colleagues or mentors. Building relationships can open doors to opportunities that aren’t even advertised.
✨Showcase Your Expertise
When you get the chance to chat with potential employers, make sure to highlight your experience in family law. Share specific examples of complex cases you've handled and how you’ve contributed to team success. This will show them you’re not just another candidate, but someone who can add real value.
✨Be Proactive
Don’t wait for job openings to come to you! Reach out directly to firms you admire, like Debenhams Ottaway, and express your interest in joining their team. A well-timed email can sometimes lead to opportunities before they even hit the job boards.
✨Prepare for Interviews
When you land an interview, do your homework! Understand the firm’s values, recent cases, and their approach to client service. Prepare thoughtful questions that show you’re genuinely interested in their work and culture. This will help you stand out as a candidate who’s ready to contribute from day one.
We think you need these skills to ace Senior Associate Solicitor (Family) - 1-year fixed term (maternity cover)
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion for Family Law: When writing your application, let your enthusiasm for family law shine through. Share specific experiences that highlight your expertise and passion for the field, as this will resonate with us at Debenhams Ottaway.
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your application to reflect the key responsibilities and skills mentioned in the job description. We want to see how your unique background aligns with our Tier 1 Family team and the values we uphold.
Be Clear and Concise: Keep your written application clear and to the point. Use straightforward language to convey your qualifications and experiences, ensuring we can easily see how you fit the role of Senior Associate Solicitor.
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to submit your application directly through our website. This not only streamlines the process but also shows your commitment to joining our team at Debenhams Ottaway.
How to prepare for a job interview at Debenhams Ottaway LLP
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you brush up on family law, especially around complex marital finance matters and child issues. Familiarise yourself with recent developments in the legal market that could impact your role. This shows you're not just knowledgeable but also genuinely interested in the field.
✨Showcase Your Team Spirit
Debenhams Ottaway values teamwork, so be ready to discuss how you've collaborated with others in previous roles. Share examples of how you've supported and developed team members, as well as how you’ve contributed to a positive work environment.
✨Client-Centric Approach
Demonstrate your commitment to client service by sharing specific instances where you've gone above and beyond for clients. Highlight your ability to build and maintain strong client relationships, as this is crucial for the firm’s success.
✨Be Strategic and Forward-Thinking
Prepare to discuss your vision for the future of the firm and how you can contribute to its long-term growth. Think about potential business development opportunities and how you can leverage your network to attract new clients.
