Private Family Law Solicitor

Job Purpose

To provide high-quality legal advice and representation to privately funded clients across a broad range of family law matters. The successful candidate will manage their own caseload efficiently, deliver exceptional client care and contribute to the continued growth and success of the Family Department.

Key Responsibilities

• Manage a varied caseload of privately funded family law matters from instruction through to conclusion.
• Advise clients on all aspects of family law, including:
  • Divorce and dissolution of civil partnerships.
  • Financial remedy proceedings.
  • Private law children matters, including child arrangements and specific issue applications.
  • Cohabitation and separation disputes.
  • Pre-nuptial and post-nuptial agreements.
  • Domestic abuse matters, including non-molestation and occupation orders.
• Conduct negotiations and represent clients in correspondence and meetings.
• Instruct counsel and other experts where appropriate.
• Prepare court documentation, witness statements, consent orders and other legal documents.
• Maintain accurate and compliant file management in accordance with the Solicitors Regulation Authority (SRA) Code of Conduct and the firm’s policies.
• Meet financial and billing targets, ensuring matters are progressed efficiently.
• Develop and maintain strong client relationships through excellent client care.
• Participate in networking, marketing initiatives and business development activities to promote the Family Department.
• Work collaboratively with colleagues and provide support where required.
• Undertake continuing professional development (CPD) and remain up to date with changes in family law and practice.

Person Specification

Essential

• Qualified Solicitor in England and Wales with experience in private family law.
• Strong technical knowledge across a broad range of privately funded family matters.
• Ability to manage an independent caseload with minimal supervision.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Strong organisational and time management skills.
• Excellent client care and interpersonal skills.
• Commercial awareness and the ability to identify opportunities for business development.
• Proficient in Microsoft Office and case management systems.

Desirable

• Membership of Resolution or a willingness to join.
• Advocacy experience.
• Established local professional network.
• Experience supervising junior staff or supporting trainees.

Key Competencies

• Client-focused approach.
• Professionalism and integrity.
• Sound judgement and problem-solving skills.
• Attention to detail.
• Ability to work effectively under pressure and manage competing priorities.
• Team player with a proactive and positive attitude.

Performance Measures

Success in the role will be measured by:

• High standards of client care and client satisfaction.
• Effective management of caseloads and deadlines.
• Achievement of agreed billing and financial targets.
• Compliance with regulatory and firm procedures.
• Positive contribution to the growth and reputation of the Family Department.
• Active participation in business development and networking activities.

Benefits

• Competitive salary commensurate with experience.
• Pension scheme.
• Generous annual leave entitlement.
• Ongoing training and professional development.
• Career progression opportunities.
• Supportive and collaborative working environment.
• Flexible working arrangements, subject to business needs.