At a Glance
- Tasks: Join a dynamic team handling diverse commercial disputes and develop your legal skills.
- Company: Top 30 UK law firm known for its collaborative and innovative culture.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, career progression, and supportive training programmes.
- Other info: Strong focus on collaboration, inclusion, and continuous development opportunities.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in high-profile cases while building your professional network.
- Qualifications: Qualified solicitor with experience in commercial disputes and a proactive mindset.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 40000 £ per year.
A leading national and international law firm is seeking two talented solicitors to join its highly regarded Commercial Disputes practice in Leeds. These are excellent opportunities for ambitious lawyers at different stages of their careers — a junior associate at 1–3 years PQE and a mid-level associate at 2–5 years PQE — to join a team with a strong market reputation, genuine progression prospects, and consistently high-quality work.
The firm is recognised by independent legal directories as one of the leading disputes and investigations practices in each of the markets in which it operates. Its client base includes blue-chip corporates, FTSE 100 companies, public sector bodies and high net worth individuals spanning sectors such as retail, energy, financial services, transport, digital, food and drink, health, and automotive.
The Commercial Disputes Group operates across all UK offices and internationally, offering clients a genuinely strategic and commercially focused approach to dispute resolution. The team handles the full spectrum of contentious work — court and arbitral proceedings, negotiation, mediation and adjudication — and is regularly instructed against magic circle, major City and US firms. The group prides itself on deep sector knowledge and a close understanding of the transactional context underpinning the disputes it handles, working in close collaboration with non-contentious colleagues to deliver rounded, commercially astute advice. It is a busy, high-performing and cohesive team where lawyers genuinely support one another.
Junior Associate – 1 to 3 years PQE
This is a great platform for a junior solicitor looking to build their commercial disputes practice within a supportive environment. The successful candidate will work across a broad range of contentious matters, developing their technical skills under the guidance of experienced practitioners. They will be encouraged to engage with formal training programmes, mentoring and coaching, and to begin building their own network of client and industry contacts.
Mid level Associate – 2 to 5 years PQE
This role is suited to a solicitor who is ready to take greater ownership of matters and make a meaningful contribution to client relationships. The successful candidate will be expected to think creatively and commercially, putting client objectives at the forefront of their approach — including considering how AI and other tools can enhance service delivery. They will play an active role in developing relationships both within the team and across the wider firm, and will have clear opportunities for career progression.
The Ideal Candidates
Both candidates will be qualified solicitors with relevant private practice experience in commercial disputes. They will be proactive, intellectually curious and genuinely committed to client service. A collaborative mindset and enthusiasm for continuous development are important, as is the ability to work flexibly across a varied caseload.
Why This Firm?
This is a firm that invests seriously in its people. Lawyers here work on high‑calibre, complex matters alongside talented and supportive colleagues. The firm has a strong culture of collaboration, innovation and inclusion, with a range of employee networks and development programmes in place. Progression is actively encouraged and there is a clear pathway for those with ambition and drive.
Commercial Disputes – Junior & Mid-Level Associates employer: Think Legal Recruitment
This leading national and international law firm in Leeds is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work environment where junior and mid-level associates can thrive. With a strong commitment to employee development, the firm provides comprehensive training programmes, mentoring, and opportunities for career progression, all within a collaborative and inclusive culture that values innovation and teamwork. Joining this firm means working on high-calibre cases alongside talented colleagues while being part of a supportive community that prioritises your professional growth.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Commercial Disputes – Junior & Mid-Level Associates
✨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 Think Legal Recruitment, 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 Commercial Disputes – Junior & Mid-Level Associates
Some tips for your application 🫡
Highlight Your Legal Knowledge:When applying for a full-time role in legal services at Think Legal Recruitment, 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 Think Legal Recruitment and the specific role of Commercial Disputes – Junior & Mid-Level Associates. 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 Think Legal Recruitment’s culture!
How to prepare for a job interview at Think Legal Recruitment
✨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 Think Legal Recruitment.
✨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 Think Legal Recruitment.
