At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead and develop the Court of Protection department while managing your own caseload.
- Company: Join a well-established firm with a strong growth trajectory in Ashton-under-Lyne.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, bonus, 25 days holiday, and health benefits.
- Other info: Clear progression route to Partner and director-level positions.
- Why this job: Shape the future of a growing team and make a real impact in legal services.
- Qualifications: Solicitor or FCILEx with 8+ years' experience and strong leadership skills.
The predicted salary is between 70000 - 95000 £ per year.
Location: Ashton-under-Lyne
Salary: £70,000 to £95,000 plus bonus and benefits
Experience: 8+ years' qualified (Solicitor or FCILEx)
This is a rare opportunity for an experienced Court of Protection specialist to step into a true leadership role, with the scope to drive growth, lead a team and shape the strategic direction of a well-established department. Our client is looking to appoint a Solicitor or FCILEx (8+ years' qualified experience) to join and lead their Court of Protection team in Ashton-under-Lyne. The team is in an exciting period of growth, supported by strong relationships with local referrers. Alongside managing your own caseload (with support from experienced solicitors and paralegals), you will take responsibility for the department's performance and play a key role in business development and cross-referral across the wider group.
You will lead a team working with clients who often have complex needs and circumstances, meaning Court of Protection matters can overlap with other areas of law. The team also undertakes contested work, so advocacy experience is advantageous. For the right person, there is clear long-term progression, including a route to Partner and the potential to progress to a director-level position within the wider group.
What You'll Be Doing
- Leading and developing the Court of Protection department, including setting direction and driving growth
- Managing your own Court of Protection caseload, supported by solicitors and paralegals
- Building and maintaining a strong referrer network and raising the team’s external profile
- Working closely with the business development function to generate new opportunities
- Cross-referring work across the wider group and collaborating with colleagues in other practice areas
- Supervising and supporting team members, including coaching, appraisals and identifying training needs
- Taking responsibility for financial performance, including billing, recovery and chargeable time targets
- Ensuring the team works in line with firm policies and all regulatory and compliance requirements
- Handling or supporting on contested work where required (advocacy experience is an advantage)
What We're Looking For
- Solicitor or FCILEx with 8+ years' qualified experience
- Strong Court of Protection experience, with confidence managing complex client needs
- Proven experience supervising and managing others (essential)
- Commercial mindset and understanding of how a law firm operates as a business
- Entrepreneurial approach, with the drive to grow a department and develop new work streams
- Strong relationship-building skills with clients, referrers and internal stakeholders
- Comfortable taking ownership of departmental performance and strategic direction
What's On Offer
- Salary of £70,000 to £95,000 plus bonus and benefits
- 25 days' holiday plus bank holidays
- Loyalty holiday scheme
- Option to purchase additional holiday
- Discretionary annual bonus scheme
- Health and wellbeing benefits (including a healthcare cash plan)
- Death in service cover
- Long-term progression, including a clear route to Partner for the right candidate
Working Arrangements
This is a permanent, full-time role based in Ashton-under-Lyne.
All applications will be treated in the strictest confidence. We will always obtain your express permission before sharing your details with our client.
Court of Protection Head of Department employer: Hawthorne-Finch Talent Solutions
Join a highly respected independent accountancy practice in Leeds, where your ambition and expertise as an ACA or ACCA qualified accountant will be valued. With a strong focus on career progression, a collaborative work culture, and the chance to mentor junior team members, this role offers a fulfilling opportunity to build lasting client relationships while contributing to the firm's growth.
Contact Details:
Hawthorne-Finch Talent Solutions Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Court of Protection Head of Department
✨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.
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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 Hawthorne-Finch Talent Solutions, 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 Court of Protection Head of Department
Some tips for your application 🫡
Highlight Your Legal Knowledge:When applying for a full-time role in legal services at Hawthorne-Finch Talent Solutions, 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 Hawthorne-Finch Talent Solutions and the specific role of Court of Protection Head of Department. 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 Hawthorne-Finch Talent Solutions’s culture!
How to prepare for a job interview at Hawthorne-Finch Talent Solutions
✨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 Hawthorne-Finch Talent Solutions.
✨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 Hawthorne-Finch Talent Solutions.
