At a Glance
- Tasks: Join a dynamic team handling complex construction and engineering disputes.
- Company: Macfarlanes, a leading law firm with a collaborative culture.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, professional development, and a supportive work environment.
- Other info: Inclusive workplace committed to diversity and personal growth.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in high-stakes legal cases while growing your career.
- Qualifications: 5-7 years' PQE and a passion for legal excellence.
The predicted salary is between 45000 - 55000 £ per year.
We are looking to recruit a Senior Associate with five to seven years’ PQE to join the Construction and Engineering disputes team within the Litigation practice.
About Macfarlanes: Macfarlanes is a pre-eminent law firm that serves a global client base in Private Capital, Private Wealth, M&A and Disputes. Personal connection, an entrepreneurial spirit and a commitment to excellence are at the heart of our firm. These values drive our ability to deliver exceptional outcomes for our clients.
What this means for you: Joining Macfarlanes means being part of a collaborative, Partner-led team where you’ll develop and learn from experienced lawyers and business professionals. Our size means you’ll be given genuine responsibility early on and often be involved at the heart of client matters, gaining insight into how our high-quality legal advice is developed and delivered to help clients overcome their most pressing issues. You’ll work closely with senior colleagues who are approachable and who want you to succeed. You’ll be encouraged to get involved in client and business development activities, and you’ll be recognised for your contribution.
The majority of our work has a cross-border focus, so you’ll often collaborate with global clients and specialist advisers in overseas jurisdictions. You’ll build connections with international law firms, broaden your experience, and be part of a multidisciplinary team that comes together to achieve the best results.
We also place real importance on your development. Our training and mentoring programmes are second to none, and designed to help you strengthen your legal and commercial skills. Above all, you’ll be part of a firm where we all work together as part of a cohesive and supportive team, where you’ll be recognised and appreciated, and encouraged to succeed.
Work highlights:
- Acting for Atlantic Projects Company in a dispute about the design and construction of a power station.
- Acting for Pinewood in multiple adjudications and High Court proceedings relating to payment disputes and delays to the completion of the major expansion of Shepperton Studios.
- Representing Sto SE & Co KgaA in relation to claims made under the Building Safety Act relating to cladding supplied in the UK by its subsidiary.
- Acting for St James’s Oncology SPC Ltd in multi-party High Court proceedings in relation to defects in the design and construction of oncology facilities at Europe’s largest teaching hospital, St James’s University Hospital, Leeds (for which we were shortlisted for The Lawyer’s Litigation Team of the Year).
- Acting for Global Switch in a series of complex adjudications and High Court proceedings against a contractor in relation to the design, construction and fit out of a data centre in London.
Practice overview: The Construction and Engineering Disputes team consists of two Partners, five Senior Associates and two Associates. The team works closely with our Non-contentious Construction and Engineering team, which comprises of one Partner and seven Associates. This team sits within the broader Litigation practice, which consists of a total of 18 Partners, three Senior Counsel, 25 Senior Associates, 26 Associates, 12 Trainee Solicitors and three Paralegals. The Construction and Engineering Disputes team act for a variety of clients, including commercial developers, house builders, PFI project companies and investors. We operate across a wide range of sectors, including multi-billion dollar infrastructure projects, private finance initiatives, large commercial and industrial developments, residential developments, private equity and pension investments and supplier and services procurement.
Key areas of expertise include:
- Developers: we work for many of the UK’s leading commercial developers, helping them to manage risks in the construction process and resolve disputes with contractors, consultants and suppliers when they arise.
- PFI and infrastructure: we advise project companies, investors, funders and service providers in relation to disputes arising from the design, construction and management of large scale projects, including government buildings, hospitals, schools and waste facilities.
- House builders: we act for a number of large housebuilders, including in relation to claims about planning, design, procurement, materials and workmanship.
- International: we represent a number of clients in disputes arising from international construction and infrastructure projects, which are often resolved through arbitration.
The role: The individual will be required to carry out a broad range of high-quality work. Key duties will include:
- Drafting correspondence, advice notes and court/arbitration/adjudication submissions and other documents;
- Working with our clients’ technical and commercial teams;
- Liaising with expert witnesses, barristers and consultants;
- Working alongside the team to understand the practical issues that our clients face, to develop a strategy to address those issues and to provide high quality and effective advice.
This job description encompasses the main duties of the role and is by no means exhaustive. It is anticipated that duties may vary from time to time according to the needs of the practice area.
The candidate: The successful candidate will possess the following:
- Strong academic qualifications from degree upwards;
- Five to seven years’ post-qualification experience;
- Ambitious, with a genuine commitment to develop their professional and legal skills and the profile of the team.
Our commitment to inclusion: Inclusion is one of our key priorities and it is a goal we are actively working towards. We believe that an inclusive, forward-thinking culture is intrinsically important and enables us to provide innovative solutions to our clients. We welcome applications from people of all backgrounds, bringing different perspectives and experiences, making Macfarlanes an exciting and stimulating place to work.
Litigation and Dispute Resolution - Construction and Engineering 5 to 7 years' PQE in London employer: Macfarlanes
At Macfarlanes, we pride ourselves on being a distinctive London-based law firm that fosters a collaborative and supportive work environment. As a PR and Communications Executive, you will benefit from exceptional learning and development programmes, allowing you to grow your skills while contributing to impactful media campaigns. Our inclusive culture values diverse perspectives, ensuring that every team member is recognised for their contributions and has the opportunity to thrive in their career.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Litigation and Dispute Resolution - Construction and Engineering 5 to 7 years' PQE in London
✨Get Involved in Law Societies
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We think you need these skills to ace Litigation and Dispute Resolution - Construction and Engineering 5 to 7 years' PQE in London
Some tips for your application 🫡
Highlight Your Legal Knowledge:When applying for a full-time role in legal services at Macfarlanes, 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 Macfarlanes and the specific role of Litigation and Dispute Resolution - Construction and Engineering 5 to 7 years' PQE. 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 Macfarlanes’s culture!
How to prepare for a job interview at Macfarlanes
✨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 Macfarlanes.
✨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 Macfarlanes.
