At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead family law cases and mentor a dynamic team of solicitors and trainees.
- Company: Join a top-tier law firm recognised for excellence and client service.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, supportive team, and career progression opportunities.
- Other info: Embrace a hybrid working environment with a commitment to diversity and training.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in people's lives while advancing your legal career.
- Qualifications: Must hold a valid Practising Certificate and have family law experience.
The predicted salary is between 40000 - 50000 £ per year.
Duncan Lewis Solicitors (Ltd) is regulated by the Solicitor’s Regulation Authority and was founded in 1998, headquartered in the City of London with offices nationwide. We are recognised by the Legal 500 and Chambers & Partners UK independent legal directories as a top-tier law firm in all key practice areas. We are a paperless law firm with over 500 personnel that embraces hybrid-working, servicing both corporate entities and private individuals in over 25 areas of law across 60 languages. We have been awarded Law Firm of the Year at the 2024 Lexis Nexis Awards and 2023 Modern Law Awards, reflecting our dedication to legal expertise and client service. We hold Investors in People Gold Standard accreditation for over 15 years, showcasing our commitment to professional development.
The Family department is ranked and recommended by The Legal 500 UK and Chambers & Partners UK for family and matrimonial work, providing confidential advice with effective representation. Our family team includes solicitors who have achieved the Law Society’s Children Law and Family Law Advanced accreditations, ensuring our clients receive a consistent and professional service.
Main Responsibilities of the Role:
- Report directly to Department Director
- Responsible for all aspects of Family law work including providing technical expertise and guidance to other team members
- Manage and supervise Solicitors, Trainee Solicitors and Caseworkers
- Assist with delivery of appropriate training and development in the department
- Deal with a range of public and private Family/children cases including child abduction, child protection issues, special guardianship and adoption matters
- Conduct your own advocacy
- Maintain a professional pro-active approach, strong client care skills and interest in Business Development and Marketing
Key Skills Required:
- Must have a clean, valid Practising Certificate at the time of applying
- Registered with the Law Society
- Accredited Family Solicitor on the Family Law Panel (preferred) with Abduction Panel accreditation (desirable)
- Strong management skills
- Committed team player with ability to foster a culture of positive change
- Previous proven supervisory experience and working to key performance indicators
- Excellent networking and communication skills
- Working knowledge of publicly funded Family/Child Care work
- Extensive experience in dealing with all Family/Child-Care work-related matters
- Experience in own advocacy is an advantage
- Excellent IT Skills - familiar with Microsoft Office applications and document management skills
What we offer:
- A fantastic supportive team
- Strong career progression with support for legal awards and professional recognition
- Competitive salary
Family Law Solicitor – Birmingham employer: Duncan Lewis Solicitors
Duncan Lewis Solicitors is an exceptional employer, renowned for its commitment to professional development and a supportive work culture. With a strong focus on diversity and inclusion, employees benefit from extensive training opportunities, competitive salaries, and the chance to work alongside a dedicated team in a top-tier law firm recognised for its excellence in family law. Located in Birmingham, the firm offers a hybrid working environment that promotes work-life balance while empowering solicitors to make a meaningful impact in their clients' lives.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Family Law Solicitor – Birmingham
✨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 Duncan Lewis Solicitors, 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 Family Law Solicitor – Birmingham
Some tips for your application 🫡
Highlight Your Legal Knowledge:When applying for a full-time role in legal services at Duncan Lewis Solicitors, 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 Duncan Lewis Solicitors and the specific role of Family Law Solicitor – Birmingham. 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 Duncan Lewis Solicitors’s culture!
How to prepare for a job interview at Duncan Lewis Solicitors
✨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 Duncan Lewis Solicitors.
✨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 Duncan Lewis Solicitors.