At a Glance
- Tasks: Engage in court advocacy and provide high-quality legal services across various civil litigation areas.
- Company: Join Express Chambers, part of an award-winning law firm with a collaborative culture.
- Benefits: Competitive salary starting at £85,000+, hybrid working, 28 days holiday, and private medical insurance.
- Other info: Enjoy a supportive environment with mentoring, training resources, and a vibrant social scene.
- Why this job: Be part of a growing team, make a real impact, and develop your legal practice.
- Qualifications: At least 5 years of experience, exceptional communication skills, and resilience.
The predicted salary is between 85000 - 100000 € per year.
Express Chambers operates as an integrated chambers model within Express Solicitors, an award‑winning law firm currently ranked 64th in The Lawyer UK 200. We comprise barristers, pupil barristers, court advocates, and clerks; the core operation of the department is closely aligned to that of a traditional barristers’ chambers. We are instructed by the wider business to provide specialist advisory and advocacy skills across all of the firm’s practice areas. This innovative and collaborative structure ensures continuity of litigation strategy, efficiency, and the highest standard of representation at every stage.
Express Chambers has a clear and achievable growth strategy. This is an exciting opportunity to join at a pivotal stage and contribute to its continued development.
The Role
Following growth in the wider business, Express Chambers is looking to recruit an experienced barrister or solicitor‑advocate (in the region of at least 5 years of experience, but we are open to considering an applicant’s individual circumstances). Applications are invited from candidates based anywhere in England and Wales. Candidates must hold, or be eligible to hold, a practising certificate.
The role reflects that of a typical civil barrister, with instructions to undertake advocacy and written work across a broad spectrum of civil litigation. The core practice areas are personal injury, clinical negligence, and costs. We are also instructed in matters relating to civil liberties, housing disrepair, and consumer claims litigation (we would be particularly interested in hearing from applicants who have experience in these areas).
The successful candidate will be supported by our experienced clerking team. We make significant efforts to ensure that workloads remain manageable within core working hours, with preparation time diarised appropriately. Whilst nationwide travel is required, this is carefully managed to ensure a healthy balance with home/office working. Reasonable travel and subsistence expenses will be borne by the business, as will the cost of renewing your practising certificate. Separate professional indemnity insurance is not required.
You will be fully supported within Chambers. We are a collegiate and approachable team, encouraging of open discussion of legal issues and ideas. You will receive mentoring from an experienced barrister, will have access to comprehensive training materials and legal resources, and will be provided with IT equipment and support. Clear policies are in place to ensure that instructions and papers are received in a timely and organised fashion.
We are seeking candidates who are motivated to contribute to the continued growth of Chambers while developing their own practice. The nature, complexity, and value of the work you undertake will reflect your level of experience. However, there is sufficient intermediate and multi‑track work available to sustain a substantial and varied practice from the outset. We are particularly interested in hearing from candidates who have experience of supervising pupils or who are willing to undertake the necessary training to be able to do so in the near future.
Responsibilities
- Court advocacy.
- Attendance at conferences, settling papers.
- To keep up to date with procedural changes, case law, and developments in legislation.
- To assist with the training and mentoring of less experienced advocates.
- Provide a high‑quality service.
Person Specification
- Higher Rights of Audience (if applicable).
- Exceptional attention to detail.
- Excellent communication skills, both written and oral.
- The ability to work both independently as well as part of a team.
- Resilience.
- Experience of personal injury litigation.
- Working knowledge of the Civil Procedure Rules.
- Experience as a pupil supervisor.
- Good level of IT literacy.
Salary & Hours
Competitive salary, dependent on experience, but at least £85,000+
Closing date: 26th June 2026
Benefits
- Hybrid Working
- 28 Days Holiday Plus bank/public holidays.
- Pension contributions, practising certificate renewal, travel/subsistence costs, and professional indemnity insurance.
- Private medical insurance available after 2 years’ service, annual flu jab and Employee Assistance Programme.
- 24/7 onsite Gym, Netball/Football team, 10km Manchester team and more.
- Active social committee with generous departmental and firm‑wide social budget.
Barrister/Solicitor Advocate in Manchester employer: EXPRESS SOLICITORS
Express Chambers, part of the award-winning Express Solicitors, offers a dynamic and supportive environment for experienced barristers and solicitor advocates. With a strong focus on employee growth, we provide comprehensive training, mentoring opportunities, and a collaborative work culture that values open discussion and innovation. Our commitment to work-life balance is reflected in our hybrid working model and manageable workloads, making us an excellent employer for those seeking a fulfilling career in law.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Barrister/Solicitor Advocate in Manchester
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Attend legal events, seminars, and workshops to meet fellow barristers and solicitors. Building relationships can lead to referrals and job opportunities that aren't advertised.
✨Tip Number 2
Showcase your expertise! Create a professional online presence through LinkedIn or a personal website. Share insights on recent cases or legal developments to position yourself as a thought leader in your field.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your pitch! Prepare a concise and compelling introduction about yourself and your experience. This will come in handy during networking events or informal chats with potential employers.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! We’re always on the lookout for talented individuals like you. Make sure to check out our current openings and submit your application directly for the best chance of landing that dream role.
We think you need these skills to ace Barrister/Solicitor Advocate in Manchester
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your application to highlight your experience in civil litigation, especially in personal injury and clinical negligence. We want to see how your background aligns with our needs at Express Chambers.
Showcase Your Advocacy Skills:Since the role involves court advocacy, include specific examples of your advocacy work. We love to see how you've effectively represented clients and navigated complex legal issues in your previous roles.
Highlight Teamwork and Mentoring Experience:We value collaboration, so if you have experience supervising pupils or mentoring less experienced advocates, make sure to mention it! This shows us you're not just a great lawyer but also a supportive team player.
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for this exciting opportunity at Express Chambers.
How to prepare for a job interview at EXPRESS SOLICITORS
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of civil litigation, especially in personal injury and clinical negligence. Familiarise yourself with the latest case law and procedural changes, as this will show your commitment to staying current in your field.
✨Showcase Your Experience
With at least 5 years of experience required, be ready to discuss specific cases you've worked on. Highlight your advocacy skills and any mentoring roles you've taken on, as this aligns well with what Express Chambers is looking for.
✨Demonstrate Team Spirit
Express Chambers values collaboration, so be prepared to talk about how you've worked effectively within a team. Share examples of how you've contributed to a positive team environment or supported less experienced colleagues.
✨Ask Insightful Questions
Prepare thoughtful questions about the role and the growth strategy of Express Chambers. This shows your genuine interest in the position and helps you assess if it's the right fit for you. Plus, it gives you a chance to engage with the interviewers on a deeper level.