At a Glance
- Tasks: Shape the future of our Dispute Resolution team and drive strategic growth.
- Company: Join a highly regarded firm with a focus on innovation and collaboration.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, professional development, and opportunities for leadership.
- Other info: Opportunity to lead and mentor a talented team while enhancing your professional network.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in a dynamic environment while building strong client relationships.
- Qualifications: Qualified solicitor with experience in commercial dispute resolution and business development skills.
The predicted salary is between 100000 - 150000 £ per year.
This is an exciting opportunity for an ambitious and entrepreneurial Partner to join our highly regarded Dispute Resolution department. You’ll play a key role in shaping the future of the team and driving its strategic direction, developing client relationships, and contributing to the continued growth of one of the firm’s flagship practice areas.
Role And Responsibilities
- Working with the Group Head to assist with the growth of the Dispute Resolution team, setting the strategic direction in line with the firm’s wider business plan and promoting the vision and strategy of the firm.
- Driving business development activity and generating new client opportunities, developing referrer relationships, networking effectively within the local and regional business community, and raising the profile of the team in target markets.
- Managing and developing key client relationships, acting as a trusted advisor on complex and high‑value disputes, and ensuring the highest standards of client care so that clients return and recommend the firm to others.
- Supervising, mentoring and developing fee earners, supporting their technical growth and career progression, and sharing knowledge and experience through informal coaching and formal training.
- Taking responsibility for your own caseload with agreed fee targets, monitoring financial performance including fees, contribution, billing and time recording, and ensuring proper pricing and scoping of all matters.
- Contributing to firm‑wide initiatives, identifying cross‑selling opportunities across the firm’s wider services, and attending relevant meetings and conferences to support strategic and commercial initiatives.
- Maintaining the highest standards of client care, technical excellence and risk management, including compliance with the firm’s Money Laundering and FSMA Policies and Procedures.
- Representing DMH Stallard externally – leading seminars, speaking at conferences, attending business development events and building your reputation as a leader in your field.
Who Are We Looking For?
We’re looking for a senior dispute resolution lawyer who is ready to take the next step in their career, or an established Partner looking for a platform that will genuinely support their ambitions. You’ll be commercially minded, collaborative, and motivated by building something and not just maintaining it.
Essential Qualifications
- Qualified solicitor with solid experience of commercial dispute resolution work.
- Proven track record of managing complex, high‑value and multi‑party litigation from inception through to trial and enforcement, including interim applications and remedies.
- An established client base, or demonstrable ability to generate a personal following.
- Strong commercial acumen with a pragmatic approach to advice and negotiations, and a clear understanding of clients’ commercial drivers and risk appetite.
- Demonstrable business development capability with a well‑developed network of professional and business contacts and the ability to leverage relationships to generate new instructions and referrals.
- Leadership experience, including the ability to lead and delegate tasks, supervise team members, and support their performance management.
- Excellent technical knowledge and the ability to draft documentation with attention to detail, provide legal advice to a high standard, and coach others through technical drafting.
- A collaborative, team‑oriented approach with excellent interpersonal and communication skills, and the ability to engage credibly with clients, contacts and colleagues at all levels.
Desirable Qualifications
- A developed specialism in commercial dispute resolution.
- Existing partner‑level network across the South East, with strong ties to the local and regional business community.
- Experience of management or leadership roles within a previous firm, including understanding of firm strategy and vision.
- Experience of advising on regulatory, compliance and enforcement matters giving rise to contentious proceedings.
- Recognition in Chambers and/or Legal 500.
Partner in Guildford employer: DMH Stallard LLP
DMH Stallard is an exceptional employer that fosters a dynamic and collaborative work culture, particularly within its Dispute Resolution department. With a strong emphasis on professional development, employees are encouraged to grow their skills through mentoring and training opportunities while contributing to the strategic direction of the firm. Located in the vibrant South East, the firm offers a unique platform for ambitious legal professionals to build meaningful client relationships and make a significant impact in a supportive environment.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Partner in Guildford
✨Get Involved in Law Societies
Join local law societies and attend their events – they're often a goldmine for networking and job opportunities in the legal field. Plus, it’s a great way to meet other budding lawyers and experienced solicitors who could provide vital insights and connections.
✨Tap into Online Legal Communities
Don’t underestimate the power of online platforms like LinkedIn and specific legal forums. Get active in discussions or share your thoughts on recent legal developments – this not only builds your visibility but also showcases your passion and knowledge in law.
✨Attend Career Fairs and Workshops
Look out for career fairs and workshops specifically focused on law. Many law firms, including DMH Stallard LLP, will be scouting for fresh talent, so bring your A-game and don’t shy away from making a memorable impression.
✨Leverage Your University’s Career Services
If you’re still in university or have recently graduated, latch onto your career services! They often have connections with law firms looking for graduates and can guide you through the application process tailored for the legal sector.
We think you need these skills to ace Partner in Guildford
Some tips for your application 🫡
Highlight Your Legal Knowledge:When applying for a full-time role in legal services at DMH Stallard LLP, 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 DMH Stallard LLP and the specific role of Partner. 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.
Stay Formal but Friendly:While we all know the legal world can be pretty formal, don’t be afraid to let a bit of personality shine through in your written application. Use a respectful tone, but feel free to inject a little warmth; this approach can help you stand out and show you're a great fit for DMH Stallard LLP’s culture!
How to prepare for a job interview at DMH Stallard LLP
✨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.
✨Show Off Your Research Skills
As legal professionals, strong research skills are a must. Have examples ready of how you've effectively used legal databases or conducted thorough legal research in your past experiences. It's a great way to demonstrate your readiness for the role at DMH Stallard LLP.
✨Exude Professionalism and Confidence
In the legal field, professionalism is key. During the interview, we should maintain good eye contact and communicate clearly to show that we’re not just knowledgeable, but also confident. This can make a positive impression on your potential colleagues at DMH Stallard LLP.
