Solicitor / FCILEX 2 – 6 Years’ PQE in Exeter

Solicitor / FCILEX 2 – 6 Years’ PQE in Exeter

Exeter Full-Time 40000 - 50000 £ / year (est.) Hybrid
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At a Glance

  • Tasks: Manage a diverse caseload in employment law and provide strategic HR advice.
  • Company: Join the UK's first major employee-owned law firm, recognised as a top workplace.
  • Benefits: Enjoy 25 days holiday, private medical insurance, and a profit-sharing scheme.
  • Other info: Flexible working options and excellent career progression opportunities await you.
  • Why this job: Make a real impact while collaborating with talented colleagues in a supportive environment.
  • Qualifications: 2-6 years PQE in employment law with strong communication skills.

The predicted salary is between 40000 - 50000 £ per year.

At Stephens Scown, every day is what we make it. So we make it matter. Doing notable work for notable clients, building our skills with talented people and having a positive impact on our communities sits at the heart of everything we do. We don’t just say it, we live it. Our commitment to our people, clients and communities runs through our DNA. We are employee-owned, we are a Certified B Corporation TM, and we are featured in the Sunday Times Best Places to Work 2025 list – ensuring our culture and ethos of going above and beyond for our people, our colleagues and our communities is recognised nationally.

The Role

  • Take ownership of a varied, high‑quality caseload that will stretch your expertise, from complex Employment Tribunal matters to strategic HR advisory work that shapes how our clients operate.
  • Be a trusted partner to employers across the region and beyond, offering commercial, creative solutions on everything from restructuring and TUPE to employee relations challenges.
  • Play a key role in major projects, supporting corporate transactions and working alongside other specialist teams to deliver seamless advice on deals that genuinely make a difference.
  • Grow your profile and influence by contributing to client training, thought leadership, and networking opportunities that position you as a go‑to employment law expert.
  • Collaborate with talented, supportive colleagues in a team that values your ideas, encourages innovation, and celebrates shared success.
  • Help drive the future of the team, getting involved in business development initiatives and shaping how we continue to grow our leading employment practice.

About You

  • 2–6 years PQE in employment law (Solicitor or Associate level)
  • Strong technical knowledge and a proactive, solution‑focused approach
  • Excellent communication skills and the ability to work independently as well as part of a team
  • A genuine interest in developing client relationships and delivering high‑quality advice

What we can offer you

  • We offer a competitive salary and an impressive array of benefits and rewards. Not least of these is through the Firm’s employee-ownership status, where every employee is listened to, helps to realise our vision and receives an equal share in our annual profit-share.
  • Our hybrid working model and approach to flexible working enables our people to share their working time between home and the office to support a healthy work / life balance.
  • Employee benefits – including 25 days holiday (plus bank holidays and your birthday), private medical insurance, group life assurance, access to a comprehensive range of wellbeing support, and three additional days’ paid leave to support good causes.
  • Progression opportunities – including regular training, qualification options, mentorship, and continued professional development.

Why Stephens Scown?

Working here is something else entirely. It’s a place where we can step up to tough challenges with people so good they inspire us to be better. We proudly work in a beautiful part of the country, go beyond expectations and achieve things that matter.

Owning It Matters…

We’re the UK’s first major employee-owned law firm. But more than this, we’re people-centred, people-powered. We do what it takes to help each other overcome every challenge. Whatever’s happening in the world, empowering our people is what matters.

Our communities and colleagues give us a lot to be thankful for. So we try to make them feel as valued as our clients. Whether we’re digging deep and giving our time and money, picking up rubbish from our streets and beaches, at Stephens Scown, if it’s right, it matters.

We might have the expertise of a top city firm, but outside our offices there’s not a skyscraper in sight. Whether we’re getting to know our clients on our local beach or having fun in the park with colleagues, we’re all about living a life enriched by work. Making the fun matter.

Apply for this position

If this sounds like you and you would like to be considered for this opportunity, please send your application by email enclosing an up-to-date CV to Careers@stephens-scown.co.uk or by post to: HR Department, Stephens Scown LLP, Curzon House, Southernhay West, Exeter, EX1 1RS.

At Stephens Scown, we believe that a diverse workforce delivers better results for our clients and creates a happier workplace where everyone feels valued and appreciated. Therefore we welcome applications from candidates from all backgrounds, abilities and beliefs.

All offers of employment at Stephens Scown are subject to Basic level of Disclosure and Barring Service check. Any information gathered in relation to the DBS process is held in accordance with all relevant data protection regulations. Having a criminal record will not necessarily bar you from working with us. This will depend on the nature of the position and the circumstances and background of your offences. At interview, or in a separate discussion, we ensure that an open and measured discussion takes place on the subject of any offences or other matter that might be relevant to the position. Failure to reveal information that is directly relevant to the position sought could lead to withdrawal of an offer of employment. We make every subject of a DBS Disclosure aware of the existence of the DBS Code of Practice. This is available on https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/dbs-code-of-practice.

Solicitor / FCILEX 2 – 6 Years’ PQE in Exeter employer: Stephens Scown LLP

At Stephens Scown, we pride ourselves on being an employee-owned law firm that truly values its people and communities. Our commitment to a positive work culture is reflected in our impressive benefits, including a competitive salary, flexible working arrangements, and a profit-sharing scheme that ensures every employee has a stake in our success. With ample opportunities for professional growth and a supportive team environment, working here means making a meaningful impact while enjoying life in a beautiful part of the country.

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Contact Details:

Stephens Scown LLP Recruitment Team

StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫

We think this is how you could land Solicitor / FCILEX 2 – 6 Years’ PQE in Exeter

✨Get Involved in Law Societies

Join local law societies and attend their events – they're often a goldmine for networking and job opportunities in the legal field. Plus, it’s a great way to meet other budding lawyers and experienced solicitors who could provide vital insights and connections.

✨Tap into Online Legal Communities

Don’t underestimate the power of online platforms like LinkedIn and specific legal forums. Get active in discussions or share your thoughts on recent legal developments – this not only builds your visibility but also showcases your passion and knowledge in law.

✨Attend Career Fairs and Workshops

Look out for career fairs and workshops specifically focused on law. Many law firms, including Stephens Scown LLP, will be scouting for fresh talent, so bring your A-game and don’t shy away from making a memorable impression.

✨Leverage Your University’s Career Services

If you’re still in university or have recently graduated, latch onto your career services! They often have connections with law firms looking for graduates and can guide you through the application process tailored for the legal sector.

We think you need these skills to ace Solicitor / FCILEX 2 – 6 Years’ PQE in Exeter

Employment Law Expertise
Client Relationship Development
Communication Skills
Problem-Solving Skills
Team Collaboration
Project Management
Commercial Awareness

Some tips for your application 🫡

Highlight Your Legal Knowledge:When applying for a full-time role in legal services at Stephens Scown LLP, 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 Stephens Scown LLP and the specific role of Solicitor / FCILEX 2 – 6 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 Stephens Scown LLP’s culture!

How to prepare for a job interview at Stephens Scown LLP

✨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 Stephens Scown LLP.

✨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 Stephens Scown LLP.