At a Glance
- Tasks: Manage contract disputes from start to finish, using litigation and mediation.
- Company: A growing legal services provider with a collaborative culture.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, hybrid working, and professional development opportunities.
- Other info: Flexible working options and a supportive team environment.
- Why this job: Join a dynamic team and make a real impact in the legal field.
- Qualifications: Qualified Solicitor or Chartered Legal Executive with contract dispute experience.
The predicted salary is between 45000 - 55000 £ per year.
A well-established and growing legal services provider is undergoing an exciting period of positive change and sustained growth within its Litigation and Dispute Management function. Known for its collaborative culture and strong focus on quality and customer outcomes, the organisation places genuine value on its people, encouraging autonomy, flexibility and professional development. With modern city‑centre offices and an emphasis on work‑life balance, this is an environment where experienced lawyers can thrive. They are now looking for a Senior Associate to join their Contract Disputes team in Bristol.
As a Senior Associate within the Contract Disputes team, you will be part of a broader Volume Litigation department. Taking responsibility for your own caseload, you will manage matters end‑to‑end in a commercial and pragmatic way, utilising litigation, mediation and alternative dispute resolution where appropriate. Your caseload will include breach of contract, misrepresentation, professional negligence and debt recovery.
Key responsibilities include:
- Managing contract dispute claims from instruction to resolution
- Assessing prospects of success at an early stage and shaping case strategy
- Handling claims in line with legal expenses insurance policy requirements
- Taking ownership of customer issues and driving cases to a positive outcome
- Working to agreed SLAs, KPIs and financial performance targets
- Supporting a culture of efficient, high-quality case handling and knowledge sharing
This is a hybrid role, requiring a minimum of two days per week in the Bristol office. The role is ideally full-time, though part-time arrangements (minimum four days per week or equivalent hours) will be considered.
To be successful in this role, you will need:
- Qualification as a Solicitor or Chartered Legal Executive (CILEX)
- Proven experience managing contract disputes
- Strong commercial judgement and analytical skills
- Excellent written and verbal communication abilities
- The ability to work under pressure in a fast‑paced, KPI‑driven environment
- A proactive and organised approach to caseload management
- Strong client care, negotiation and collaborative skills
- Resilience and professionalism when dealing with sensitive or complex matters
This role will suit a motivated Senior Associate who takes pride in delivering high-quality legal outcomes and enjoys working in a dynamic, customer‑focused environment.
In return, you will receive:
- A competitive salary and benefits package
- Hybrid and flexible working options
- Modern, centrally located Bristol offices
- A supportive, high‑performing and inclusive team culture
- Opportunities for continued professional development and career progression
This is an excellent opportunity to join a stable and expanding legal team that encourages ownership, flexibility and long-term career growth. Please contact Harriet Chapman at Hays Legal for further information on the role.
If you are an experienced contract disputes lawyer looking for your next senior‑level opportunity in Bristol, we’d love to hear from you. Apply now or contact us for a confidential discussion to find out more about this exciting opportunity.
Contract Disputes Senior Associate in Bristol employer: Hays
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StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Contract Disputes Senior Associate in Bristol
✨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 Hays, 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 Contract Disputes Senior Associate in Bristol
Some tips for your application 🫡
Highlight Your Legal Knowledge:When applying for a full-time role in legal services at Hays, 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 Hays and the specific role of Contract Disputes Senior Associate. 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 Hays’s culture!
How to prepare for a job interview at Hays
✨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 Hays.
✨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 Hays.
