Property Litigation Fee Earner

A London firm are seeking a Property & Housing Litigation Fee Earner/Solicitor to manage a varied caseload of contentious housing and property matters, providing strategic legal advice to landlords, tenants, housing associations, and property management companies. The role blends technical litigation expertise with strong client-handling skills, ensuring disputes are resolved efficiently, commercially, and in line with regulatory requirements.

Key Responsibilities

• Manage a full litigation caseload including possession proceedings, disrepair claims, anti-social behaviour matters, rent arrears, breach of tenancy, boundary disputes, and service charge disputes.
• Draft and prepare legal documents such as pleadings, witness statements, instructions to counsel, settlement agreements, and correspondence with parties and the court.
• Conduct advocacy at County Court level where appropriate, including possession hearings, directions hearings, and interim applications.
• Advise clients (landlords, tenants, social housing providers, agents, and private property owners) on legal rights, obligations, and strategic options.
• Handle pre-action work including compliance with the Pre-Action Protocol for Housing Conditions Claims and Pre-Action Protocol for Possession Claims.
• Negotiate settlements and manage alternative dispute resolution processes such as mediation.
• Maintain accurate file management ensuring compliance with regulatory, legislative, and internal quality standards.
• Work collaboratively with colleagues, counsel, surveyors, and external agencies to progress cases effectively.
• Keep up to date with changes in housing law, landlord and tenant legislation, and civil procedure rules.
• Meet billing targets and contribute to departmental performance through efficient case progression and client retention.

Required Skills & Experience

• Experience handling a property or housing litigation caseload (social housing or private sector).
• Strong knowledge of Landlord and Tenant Act 1985, Housing Act 1988, Housing Act 1996, Protection from Eviction Act 1977, and relevant case law.
• Confident drafting skills and familiarity with CPR, pre-action protocols, and court processes.
• Ability to manage competing deadlines and work autonomously.
• Excellent communication skills with a client-focused approach.
• Advocacy experience (desirable but not essential depending on seniority).
• Strong negotiation and problem-solving abilities.
• Proficiency with case management systems and digital court processes.

Personal Attributes

• Proactive, organised, and able to work under pressure.
• Commercially aware with a practical approach to dispute resolution.
• Empathetic and professional when dealing with vulnerable clients or sensitive housing issues.
• Team-oriented with a willingness to support colleagues and contribute to departmental growth.

Typical Qualifications

• Solicitor, Legal Executive, or experienced Paralegal/Litigation Executive.
• Experience in property or housing litigation.