Associate – Medical Negligence in Manchester

What can you expect? Fieldfisher houses one of the UK’s leading Personal Injury and Medical Negligence practices, acting for claimants in complex, high-value and often life-changing cases. The Manchester Medical Negligence team, led by Jenny Urwin, is a growing and high-performing group handling a busy and varied caseload. The team acts on behalf of claimants in a range of clinical negligence matters, often involving complex liability issues and expert evidence. This is an opportunity to join a collaborative and ambitious team, working closely with partners and senior lawyers on high-quality work, while also taking ownership of your own caseload. You will be encouraged to develop your profile, contribute to business development and play a key role in the continued growth of the Manchester practice.

Responsibilities

• Assist in managing a caseload of claimant clinical negligence matters, with supervision on more complex cases
• Support Partners and senior lawyers on high-value and complex litigation
• Draft key legal documents including pleadings, witness statements, schedules of loss and settlement documentation
• Instruct and liaise with counsel, medical experts and other third parties
• Maintain regular client contact, handling matters with sensitivity and professionalism
• Support the progression of claims from inception through to settlement or trial, ensuring positive client outcomes
• Assist with business development activities, including networking and marketing initiatives
• Contribute to team knowledge sharing and collaborate effectively with colleagues
• Maintain accurate file management, time recording and compliance with internal processes and regulatory requirements

Experience and Knowledge

• UK qualified solicitor with typically 3–6 years’ PQE
• Experience in claimant clinical negligence work
• Developing technical ability with exposure to a range of clinical negligence claims
• Strong drafting, analytical and organisational skills
• Ability to build effective relationships with clients, experts and colleagues
• Proactive and collaborative team player with a commitment to quality and client care
• Good case management and organisational skills
• Strong academic background
• Demonstrates a genuine commitment to client care, with an empathetic and professional approach

Who are we looking for?

We don't have a type. We believe our differences are our strength; varied cultures, approaches and experiences can only benefit us.

What do we offer?

• You can be yourself: It takes everyone to make us who we are. We’re a culture of diverse perspectives, with each of us making unique contributions that make us better together.
• In the office or WFH?: We think the best balance is more time in the office than at home, so we operate a 60:40 rule.
• Beyond salary: We offer plenty of benefits; private medical insurance, health cash plan, dental insurance, life assurance, critical illness insurance, matched pension contributions up to 7%, holiday trading, plus many more.
• Nurturing your talent: Take a 'build a career' approach to your training. You'll be on a pathway but free to wander if you see something you'd like to study more closely.
• Funnel your interests: You have a life outside work, and we can help it to flourish. Join clubs, affinity networks, inclusive events, and pro bono/charity initiatives.

Inclusion at Fieldfisher

At Fieldfisher, inclusion is central to how we work. We are committed to creating a workplace where everyone feels respected, supported and able to succeed. If you need any adjustments during the recruitment process or once you join us, we will work with you to put the right support in place.

What to do next: Click 'Apply Now', complete an online application and upload a CV. Successful applications will be invited to a 20–30-minute introductory call with a recruiter. Every role recruits differently. But we'll always let you know what to expect from the process, so you get no surprises. For hybrid opportunities, you'll be invited to visit our offices for a face-to-face meeting. We try to make sure the process takes around 2-3 weeks only, but we can't always promise that. We will work around everyone's availability.