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- Tasks: Advise on commercial disputes and support high-value cases in a dynamic legal environment.
- Company: Top-tier Manchester law firm known for its supportive culture and career development.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, early responsibility, and clear progression opportunities.
- Why this job: Gain diverse experience in litigation and advisory work while building client relationships.
- Qualifications: Qualified solicitor with 2-5 years’ PQE in dispute resolution and strong drafting skills.
- Other info: Collaborative team atmosphere with mentoring opportunities for junior members.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
Location: Central Manchester
Level: Associate
PQE: 2–5 years
The Opportunity
I’m currently working exclusively with a top-tier Manchester law firm seeking a talented Dispute Resolution Associate to join their central Manchester office. This is a fantastic opportunity to work in a highly respected team with a 3:2 split between contentious litigation and advisory work, providing exposure to both courtroom and transactional dispute matters.
The team handles high-quality, commercially focused disputes for a mix of corporate clients, directors, and shareholders. The firm is known for its pragmatic approach, supportive culture, and commitment to developing lawyers to the next stage of their careers.
As a Dispute Resolution Associate, you will:
- Advise on a broad range of commercial disputes, including shareholder, director, and contractual matters
- Conduct pre-action advice, litigation, and alternative dispute resolution
- Draft pleadings, witness statements, and key legal correspondence
- Support high-value and complex cases, including those with potential High Court exposure
- Engage with clients directly and develop strong relationships
- Collaborate with other practice areas to provide comprehensive advice
- Assist in mentoring junior members of the team
The ideal candidate will:
- Be a qualified solicitor with 2–5 years’ PQE in dispute resolution
- Have experience across both contentious and advisory work
- Be commercially minded, solutions-focused, and confident dealing with clients
- Demonstrate strong drafting, research, and organisational skills
- Have the ambition to progress in a top-tier disputes practice
Previous experience in a high-quality regional or national law firm is preferred, but the firm is equally interested in candidates with strong technical ability and commercial awareness.
Why This Role?
- Exposure to a top-tier disputes team in a central Manchester office
- Balanced 3:2 split between litigation and advisory, offering diverse experience
- Early responsibility and direct client contact
- Collaborative, supportive, and career-focused culture
- Competitive remuneration and clear progression opportunities
Dispute Resolution Associate in Manchester employer: Simpson Judge
Contact Detail:
Simpson Judge Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Dispute Resolution Associate in Manchester
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Get out there and connect with professionals in the legal field. Attend events, join relevant groups on LinkedIn, and don’t be shy to reach out for informational chats. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings!
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by practising common questions and scenarios related to dispute resolution. Think about your past experiences and how they relate to the role. We recommend doing mock interviews with friends or mentors to boost your confidence.
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your skills! Create a portfolio of your best work, including any pleadings or case studies you've handled. This will not only impress potential employers but also give you a chance to discuss your practical experience during interviews.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, we love seeing candidates who are proactive and engaged with our platform. Let’s get you that Dispute Resolution Associate role!
We think you need these skills to ace Dispute Resolution Associate in Manchester
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV reflects the skills and experiences that match the Dispute Resolution Associate role. Highlight your PQE, relevant cases you've worked on, and any client interactions to show you're ready for this opportunity.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you’re passionate about dispute resolution and how your experience aligns with the firm's values. Don’t forget to mention your ambition to grow within a top-tier practice!
Showcase Your Drafting Skills: Since strong drafting is key for this role, consider including examples of pleadings or legal correspondence you've drafted in your application. This will demonstrate your capability and attention to detail right from the start.
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply directly through our website for a smoother process. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets the attention it deserves, and we can’t wait to see what you bring to the table!
How to prepare for a job interview at Simpson Judge
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of dispute resolution, especially the types of cases the firm handles. Familiarise yourself with recent high-profile cases and be ready to discuss how they relate to the role.
✨Show Your Commercial Awareness
Demonstrate that you understand the business side of disputes. Be prepared to talk about how commercial considerations influence legal strategies and outcomes, as this will show you're not just a legal mind but also a strategic thinker.
✨Practice Your Drafting Skills
Since drafting is key in this role, consider bringing examples of your previous work or even preparing a mock pleading. This will showcase your skills and give you a chance to discuss your thought process behind your drafting style.
✨Engage and Build Rapport
Remember, this role involves direct client contact. Practice how you would engage with clients and build relationships. Show your interpersonal skills during the interview by being personable and approachable.
