Defendant Personal Injury Solicitor (2-6 PQE)

Reference: 4822520Job ID: 5410781Posted: 2026-08-20Closing date: 2026-11-17Location: ManchesterSalary: Competitive (per annum)Job type: PermanentWorking pattern: Full time / Flexible workingIndustry: Legal / Private PracticeCompany: HaysConsultant: Alexander PayneHays office: Manchester — 5th Floor, City Tower, Piccadilly PlazaPhone: 0161 228 7770Email: alexander.payne@hays.comYour new companyA highly regarded national law firm with a strong reputation within the insurance sector is seeking a Solicitor or Associate to join its established Defendant Personal Injury team in Manchester. The firm acts for a broad insurer and public sector client base and is recognised for delivering high-quality legal advice across motor, casualty and liability claims. With a collaborative culture, genuine opportunities for progression and a strong commitment to employee wellbeing, this is an excellent opportunity for an ambitious lawyer looking to further develop their career within defendant insurance litigation.Your new roleYou will join a specialist team handling a varied caseload of defendant personal injury matters, primarily comprising Road Traffic Accident, Employers' Liability and Public Liability claims. The role offers exposure to fast-track and intermediate-track litigation, alongside opportunities to support on more complex matters.Your responsibilities will include:Managing a caseload of defendant motor, EL and PL claims from inception through to resolution.Providing strategic legal advice and guidance to insurer, local authority and corporate clients.Assessing liability, quantum and litigation risk to determine appropriate case strategies.Drafting legal documentation, conducting legal research and preparing court papers.Negotiating settlements and representing clients' interests throughout the litigation process.Liaising with counsel, experts, insurers and key stakeholders.Supporting and mentoring junior team members and paralegals.Ensuring compliance with court deadlines, regulatory requirements and internal quality standards.Achieving financial and performance targets, including time recording and billing objectives.Building and maintaining strong client relationships and contributing to business development initiativesWhat you'll need to succeedApplications are welcomed from qualified solicitors or chartered legal executives with 2–6 years' PQE and proven experience in defendant personal injury litigation.You should have:Strong experience handling motor/RTA, Employers' Liability and Public Liability claims.Detailed knowledge of the Civil Procedure Rules and insurance litigation processes.Experience acting for insurers, local authorities or other defendant clients.The ability to independently manage a litigated caseload.Excellent communication and client relationship management skills.Strong organisational skills with the ability to prioritise competing deadlines.Experience using case management systems and legal technology platforms.A commercial approach and commitment to delivering excellent client service.Previous supervisory or mentoring experience would be advantageous, as would involvement in networking and business development activities.What you'll get in returnIn return, you will join a well-established and supportive insurance litigation team offering:Competitive salary and benefits package.Clear progression opportunities.High-quality and varied defendant personal injury work.Flexible and hybrid working arrangements.Ongoing training and professional development.Private healthcare and enhanced wellbeing benefits.Generous annual leave entitlement.Supportive and collaborative working culture.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. #4822520 - Alexander Payne