At a Glance
- Tasks: Manage a diverse caseload of construction and property disputes while supporting senior lawyers.
- Company: Join Kennedy's, a top-tier firm known for its expertise in insurance and disputes.
- Benefits: Gain valuable experience, develop your skills, and work in a supportive environment.
- Other info: Dynamic team atmosphere with opportunities for professional development and networking.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on high-value cases and grow your legal career.
- Qualifications: Qualified solicitor with 1-3 years' PQE and experience in relevant disputes.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 40000 £ per year.
Kennedy's is seeking a talented Associate (1–3 PQE) to join its Property, Energy & Construction (PEC) team in Chelmsford. The successful candidate will work on a broad range of contentious construction, property damage, subrogated recovery, and insurance‑related disputes for insurer, corporate, and commercial clients. This role offers the opportunity to work within a highly regarded insurance and disputes practice, supporting partners and senior lawyers on complex, high‑value matters while developing responsibility for your own caseload.
Key Responsibilities
- Managing a varied caseload of PEC disputes under supervision, including:
- Construction and engineering disputes
- Property damage claims
- Subrogated recoveries
- Coverage‑related disputes
- Contractor and consultant negligence matters
- Advising insurer and commercial clients on liability, quantum, policy response, and litigation strategy.
- Drafting statements of case, witness statements, instructions to experts and counsel, and settlement agreements.
- Handling matters through litigation, adjudication, mediation, and other forms of dispute resolution.
- Reviewing contracts, construction documentation, and technical expert evidence.
- Conducting legal and technical research to support client advice.
- Assisting partners and senior associates on large and complex multi‑party disputes.
- Maintaining effective client relationships through commercially focused and responsive advice.
- Supporting business development initiatives, including client training, seminars, and networking activities.
- Ensuring compliance with court deadlines, procedural rules, and internal risk management processes.
Candidate Profile
Essential Skills & Experience
- Qualified solicitor in England & Wales with 1–3 years' PQE.
- Experience in construction disputes, insurance litigation, commercial litigation, or property damage matters.
- Strong drafting, analytical, and organisational skills.
- Good understanding of the Civil Procedure Rules and dispute resolution processes.
- Ability to manage multiple matters and work effectively to deadlines.
- Commercially minded with strong client‑facing capability.
- Strong attention to detail and willingness to develop technical expertise.
Desirable Experience
- Experience acting for insurers or within the insurance sector.
- Exposure to adjudication or construction‑related dispute resolution.
- Familiarity with professional negligence and recovery actions.
- Experience working with expert evidence in technical disputes.
Associate in Chelmsford employer: Kennedys
Kennedy's is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work environment in Chelmsford where Associates can thrive within a highly regarded Property, Energy & Construction team. With a strong focus on professional development, employees benefit from hands-on experience with complex cases, supportive mentorship from senior lawyers, and opportunities for client engagement, all while enjoying a collaborative and inclusive culture that values innovation and excellence.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Associate in Chelmsford
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Get out there and connect with people in the industry. Attend events, join relevant groups, and don’t be shy about reaching out to professionals on LinkedIn. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the company and its recent projects. Show them you’re genuinely interested in their work, especially in areas like construction disputes or insurance litigation. Tailor your answers to highlight how your skills fit their needs.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your pitch! Be ready to explain why you’re the perfect fit for the Associate role at Kennedy's. Focus on your experience with contentious construction and property damage claims, and how you can contribute to their PEC team.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, we love seeing candidates who take the initiative to engage directly with us. Good luck!
We think you need these skills to ace Associate in Chelmsford
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV is tailored to the Associate role at Kennedy's. Highlight your experience in construction disputes and insurance litigation, as well as any relevant skills that match the job description. We want to see how you fit into our team!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you're passionate about joining our Property, Energy & Construction team. Share specific examples of your experience and how they relate to the responsibilities listed in the job description.
Show Off Your Drafting Skills:Since strong drafting skills are essential for this role, make sure your application materials are clear, concise, and free of errors. We appreciate attention to detail, so take the time to proofread and polish your documents before submitting them through our website.
Be Yourself:We want to get to know the real you! Don’t be afraid to let your personality shine through in your application. Show us your enthusiasm for the role and the firm, and let us see how you can contribute to our team culture.
How to prepare for a job interview at Kennedys
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of construction disputes, insurance litigation, and the Civil Procedure Rules. Familiarise yourself with recent cases or developments in these areas, as it shows you're genuinely interested and engaged.
✨Showcase Your Skills
Prepare to discuss your drafting and analytical skills in detail. Bring examples of your work, like statements of case or settlement agreements, to demonstrate your capabilities. This will help you stand out as a candidate who can hit the ground running.
✨Client-Focused Mindset
Since this role involves maintaining effective client relationships, think about how you can convey your commercially minded approach. Be ready to share experiences where you've provided responsive advice or contributed to business development initiatives.
✨Ask Smart Questions
Prepare thoughtful questions about the PEC team’s current projects or challenges they face. This not only shows your interest but also gives you insight into how you can contribute to their success if you join the team.
