At a Glance
- Tasks: Manage diverse Public Law cases and support a dynamic team in achieving client outcomes.
- Company: Join Duncan Lewis, a top-tier law firm recognised for excellence and innovation.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, pension scheme, generous leave, and professional development opportunities.
- Other info: Be part of a supportive, forward-thinking organisation with excellent career growth potential.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in public law while developing your legal expertise.
- Qualifications: Must hold a valid Practising Certificate and have strong management and client care skills.
The predicted salary is between 40500 - 49500 £ per year.
Duncan Lewis Solicitors is seeking a motivated and talented Public Law Solicitors to join our highly regarded Public Law Department. This is an excellent opportunity to develop your career with one of the UK's leading law firms, recognised by The Legal 500 and Chambers & Partners as a top-tier practice and awarded Law Firm of the Year at both the 2024 LexisNexis Awards and the 2023 Modern Law Awards.
Founded in 1998 and headquartered in the City of London, Duncan Lewis Solicitors is a national, award-winning, paperless law firm with over 500 professionals nationwide. Our ethos is simple: "We give people a voice." Our Public Law team is recognised by The Legal 500 as a "dynamic team" that is "exceptional in ability and reach." Ranked and recommended for its excellence nationwide, the department acts on both publicly funded and private matters, specialising in judicial review, civil liberties, human rights, and challenges against public bodies including the Home Office, HMRC, local authorities, and the NHS.
The team has a strong track record of securing emergency relief, pursuing landmark cases through the higher courts, and representing vulnerable and marginalised individuals in matters that shape legal precedent and drive meaningful change. Joining Duncan Lewis means becoming part of a diverse, supportive and forward-thinking organisation where you will have the opportunity to develop your expertise alongside experienced and professional Public Law practitioners committed to achieving the best outcomes for clients.
Duties and responsibilities
As a Public Law Solicitor, you will support the Public Law team in managing a broad range of challenging and rewarding matters. Key responsibilities will include:
- Report directly to Department Director
- Responsible for all aspects of Public Law work including providing technical expertise and guidance to other team members
- Ability to manage and supervise Solicitors, Trainee Solicitors and Caseworkers to manage appropriate caseload types and complexities
- Assisting with delivery of appropriate training and development in the department
- Variety of duties including dealing with a range of Public Law work including: Unlawful detention; False imprisonment; Abuse by detention staff and removal escorts; Conditions in detention; Age assessments; Asylum support; Challenging non-appealable decisions; Challenging removal notices; NHS & Local Authority challenges; Policies, practices and decisions made by the Immigration and Asylum Tribunals (First-tier Tribunal / Upper Tribunal); Bail decisions
- Preparing and managing funding applications to the Legal Aid Agency
- Preparing draft documents including witness statements and processing evidence
- Preparing applications (incl drafting application forms, index of documents and letters of representations)
- Attending conferences and court
You will have a professional pro-active approach, strong client care skills and be interested in Business Development and Marketing to supplement the substantial work volumes brought in by the company.
Experience and qualifications
- Must have a clean, valid Practising Certificate at the time of applying
- Be committed and highly driven to provide an excellent standard of service to our clients
- Strong management skills
- Committed team player with ability to approach team concerns fairly, foster culture of positive change and encourage cross referrals
- Previous proven supervisory experience and working to key performance indicators
- Professional with a pro-active approach; excellent client care skills and ability to deal with client matters in a sensitive manner to deal with vulnerable clients and resolve complicated practicalities involved in Public Law issues
- Excellent networking and communication skills with the ability to successfully market the Company and generate new business
- Working knowledge of the Legal Aid Guidance for Public Law matters and have the ability to service privately funded cases
- Have extensive experience in dealing with all Public Law related work
- Experience in own advocacy is an advantage
- Excellent IT Skills - familiar with Microsoft Office applications and document management skills
Benefits
We offer a competitive salary and a comprehensive range of benefits designed to support your professional development, wellbeing, and work-life balance, including:
- Competitive salary with structured pay review process
- Company pension scheme
- 22 days annual leave, increasing with length of service
- Additional birthday leave
- Occupational sick pay
Public Law Solicitor (x2) - Manchester in Burnley employer: Duncan Lewis Solictors
Duncan Lewis Solicitors is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work environment in the heart of London, where innovation meets legal expertise. With a strong commitment to employee growth and development, we provide extensive training opportunities and embrace a hybrid-working model that promotes work-life balance. Our inclusive culture, recognised by multiple awards, ensures that every team member feels valued and empowered to make a meaningful impact in the field of law.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Public Law Solicitor (x2) - Manchester in Burnley
✨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 Solictors, 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 Public Law Solicitor (x2) - Manchester in Burnley
Some tips for your application 🫡
Highlight Your Legal Knowledge:When applying for a full-time role in legal services at Duncan Lewis Solictors, 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 Solictors and the specific role of Public Law Solicitor (x2) - Manchester. 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 Solictors’s culture!
How to prepare for a job interview at Duncan Lewis Solictors
✨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 Solictors.
✨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 Solictors.
