At a Glance
- Tasks: Handle social care and abuse files, assist with legal research and case management.
- Company: Join Weightmans, a leading national law firm with a focus on people and culture.
- Benefits: Enjoy competitive salary, career development, and a supportive work environment.
- Other info: Be part of an award-winning team with excellent growth opportunities.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in public sector law while developing your legal expertise.
- Qualifications: Experience in social care claims or a strong interest in this challenging area.
The predicted salary is between 38250 - 46750 £ per year.
Our Market Leading Local Government team provides a full, expert service in defending public (PL) and employers' liability (EL) claims across the public sector. Weightmans' team is second-to-none in providing defendant litigation services in these and other specialist Casualty areas. We operate on a national basis with dedicated commercial insurance and Local Government teams and as part of our wider specialism we have a dedicated Casualty Fraud team.
We are currently recruiting for a lawyer to join our Local Government Team based in either Birmingham or Leicester. You will be exposed to high-quality work including Public Inquiries, Human Rights Act claims, abuse and neglect claims, and Equalities litigation. We are committed to developing our people and will support the right candidate to become an expert in this interesting area.
We seek a handler with experience of handling or assisting on claims arising from adult and children’s social care. We are open to all candidates with an interest in developing in this challenging area of work.
Your key duties and responsibilities will include:
- Handling or assisting on social care and abuse files (depending on experience)
- Assisting senior fee earners with various tasks including general case management, legal research, drafting of witness statements, reports to clients and preparation for court hearings
- Managing disclosure documents
- Attending client meetings and court hearings
- Assisting with the instruction of Counsel and experts
- Responding promptly and accurately to correspondence and telephone enquiries from clients and other parties, with and without supervision
- Achieving set financial and chargeable targets
- Supporting the team’s business development activities
This list is not intended to be exhaustive and you will be expected to perform other duties and have other responsibilities that fall within the wider remit of the role.
About You
You will have experience handling or assisting on social care and abuse files, or previous experience of handling casualty claims, and a genuine, demonstrable interest in the work. We also require you to have:
- A proactive and forward-thinking mindset
- A willingness to ask questions and engage with the whole team
- Experience of handling own caseload
- Good drafting skills
- Good communication skills
- Good negotiating skills
- Good IT skills
- Good written and communication skills
- Good time management and organisation skills
- Good attention to detail
- Ability to multi-task and prioritise
- Ability to work to strict deadlines
- Ability to work as part of a team and on own initiative
- Knowledge of CPR procedure with proven technical ability
If you meet our criteria and think this is a job where you could bring enthusiasm and an eagerness to learn, then we look forward to receiving your application.
Why work for us
Come and join our award-winning organisation and be part of a team where people truly matter. Weightmans is a Leading national law firm, with strong international capabilities. Weightmans has been recognised as a leading employer for the 19th consecutive year at Britain’s Top Employers awards, and ranking top 10 in the list, the firm has also secured top positions in Chambers UK. Join Weightmans as we continue our journey to becoming one of the UK’s top 30 law firms.
Curious about what it is like to work at our firm? Visit our Life at Weightmans page for insights into our employee initiatives, responsible business commitments and much more!
Local Government & Social Care Lawyer employer: Weightmans
Weightmans is an excellent employer, offering a supportive work culture that values collaboration and professional growth. Located in Liverpool, the firm provides comprehensive training opportunities for its employees, ensuring they are well-equipped to handle complex litigation cases. With a focus on employee development and a commitment to work-life balance, Weightmans stands out as a rewarding place to build a meaningful career in law.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Local Government & Social Care Lawyer
✨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 Weightmans, 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 Local Government & Social Care Lawyer
Some tips for your application 🫡
Highlight Your Legal Knowledge:When applying for a full-time role in legal services at Weightmans, 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 Weightmans and the specific role of Local Government & Social Care Lawyer. 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 Weightmans’s culture!
How to prepare for a job interview at Weightmans
✨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 Weightmans.
✨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 Weightmans.
