You will provide sound legal advice, manage cases efficiently and help clients reach workable outcomes. You will have appropriate autonomy, recognise when a matter requires further support and contribute to the continued development of our family law practice.
Key responsibilities
- Manage a privately funded caseload covering divorce and dissolution, financial remedies and private children matters, from initial instructions through to conclusion.
- Advise on financial settlements, including property, pensions and disclosure; identify complex issues and obtain specialist input where needed.
- Advise on child arrangements and related applications, including specific issue and prohibited steps matters, with careful attention to safeguarding and domestic abuse concerns.
- Prepare correspondence, applications, witness statements, consent orders and other court documents; oversee bundles and comply with court directions and deadlines.
- Conduct negotiations and support appropriate dispute resolution, including mediation; undertake advocacy within your competence and instruct counsel and experts where required.
- Keep clients informed, explain their options and provide realistic advice on costs, risks and likely outcomes.
Practice management and team contribution
- Maintain accurate electronic files and attendance notes using Clio; record time promptly and manage billing, work in progress and payments on account.
- Work towards agreed billing and performance objectives while maintaining quality, client care and effective case management.
- Follow the firm’s procedures for conflicts, confidentiality, client identification, financial controls and professional conduct; raise concerns promptly with the Principal Solicitor.
- Work collaboratively with colleagues and support trainees and paralegals through appropriate delegation, guidance and review of their work.
- Help develop client relationships and referral contacts, and contribute to proportionate marketing and business development activities.
Essential skills and experience
- Qualified solicitor in England and Wales with a current practising certificate and approximately 4–5 years’ PQE in family law.
- Experience of independently managing privately funded financial remedy and private children cases, with sound knowledge of relevant law and procedure.
- Strong drafting, negotiation and analytical skills, with the judgement to identify issues requiring supervision or specialist advice.
- A sensitive, clear and professional approach to clients, including those experiencing conflict or vulnerability.
- Good organisation and the ability to manage competing deadlines, maintain accurate records and meet agreed financial objectives.
- Confidence using case management systems and Microsoft 365, and a collaborative approach to working with colleagues.
Membership of Resolution, experience of TOLATA or cohabitation disputes, nuptial agreements or cross-border family matters, and experience supporting junior colleagues would be welcome. Familiarity with Clio would also be helpful.
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