At a Glance
- Tasks: Manage your own caseload of defendant EL and PL claims, including complex litigation.
- Company: Join a highly regarded national insurance disputes team in Birmingham.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, flexible working options, and comprehensive benefits package.
- Other info: Strong opportunities for career progression and involvement in client development.
- Why this job: Gain autonomy and exposure to complex cases while mentoring junior colleagues.
- Qualifications: Solicitor or Chartered Legal Executive with 4+ years' experience in personal injury litigation.
The predicted salary is between 45000 - 55000 £ per year.
Reference: 4843031Job ID: 5423551Posted: 2026-11-05Closing date: 2027-02-03Location: Birmingham
Salary: Competitive (per annum)Job type: Permanent Working pattern: Full time / Flexible working
- Industry: Legal / Private Practice
- Company: Hays
Consultant: Alexander Payne Hays office: Manchester — 5th Floor, City Tower, Piccadilly Plaza
Phone: 0161 228 7770Email: alexander. payne@hays. com Your new company An excellent opportunity has arisen for an experienced Defendant EL/PL Senior Associate to join a highly regarded national insurance disputes team in Birmingham.
You will take responsibility for your own varied caseload of employers’ liability and public liability claims, including higher-value matters proceeding through the Multi-Track.
You will also work alongside senior lawyers on complex and catastrophic injury claims, particularly those arising from industrial accidents.
The role offers a high level of autonomy alongside exposure to complex litigation, major insurer and corporate clients, and the opportunity to supervise and develop junior members of the team.
Your new role Manage your own caseload of defendant EL and PL claims from instruction through to conclusion.
Handle higher-value and complex claims, including Multi-Track litigation.
Assist senior lawyers with catastrophic injury claims, particularly those arising from industrial accidents.
Act on behalf of insurers, corporate clients and other organisations involved in commercial insurance risks.
Develop and implement appropriate litigation and case strategies.
Undertake advocacy where appropriate.
Supervise and support junior lawyers, trainees and paralegals.
Assist with client development, marketing initiatives and client seminars.
What you'll need to succeed You will ideally be a solicitor or Chartered Legal Executive with at least 4 years' PQE and strong experience in defendant personal injury litigation.
You should have: Extensive defendant EL/PL litigation experience.
Experience independently managing your own caseload.
Strong experience of Multi-Track personal injury claims.
The ability to develop and implement effective case strategies.
Excellent drafting and written communication skills.
Advocacy experience.
Strong time, caseload and file management skills.
The ability to supervise and delegate work to junior colleagues.
A proactive and commercially minded approach.
Experience assisting Partners or senior lawyers on larger or catastrophic injury claims would be particularly advantageous.
Previous exposure to clinical negligence litigation would also be beneficial but is not essential.
What you'll get in return You'll join a well-established and supportive insurance litigation team offering high-quality defendant personal injury work and genuine opportunities to develop at Senior Associate level.
The position offers: A competitive salary and comprehensive benefits package.
High-quality defendant EL/PL and casualty work.
Exposure to complex and catastrophic injury litigation.
Work for major insurers and corporate clients.
A high level of autonomy over your own caseload.
Supervisory and mentoring responsibilities.
Involvement in client development and business development activities.
Flexible working options.
Strong opportunities for continued career progression.
What you need to do now If you're interested in this role, click 'apply now' to forward an up-to-date copy of your CV.
Alternatively, email Alexander.
Payne@hays. com or call us now on 0161 228 7770.
If this job isn't quite right for you, but you are looking for a new position, please contact us for a confidential discussion about your career. #4843031 - Alexander Payne
Defendant EL/PL Senior Associate employer: Hays
Join a well-established ecological consultancy in Kent that prioritises work-life balance and professional development. With a collaborative team culture and a commitment to delivering high-quality ecological advice, this company offers meaningful career progression opportunities for ecologists. Enjoy flexible working arrangements and the chance to work on diverse projects across the South East and beyond.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Defendant EL/PL Senior Associate
✨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 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 Defendant EL/PL Senior Associate
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 Defendant EL/PL 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.
