Job Description

Watkins Solicitors, an award-winning legal firm with a legacy in Family Law, Education Law, Conveyancing, Human Rights, Judicial Review, and Wills & Probate Law, is expanding its team. With offices strategically located in North Bristol, South Bristol, Bath, and Hereford. We also serve clients in Evesham by appointment.

About Us:

Legal Aid franchise, serving family clients, judicial review, and human rights. Accommodating both Legal Aid and private clients. Outstanding reputation as a supportive employer. Emphasis on remote, agile, and flexible working opportunities.

The Opportunity: Head of Domestic Abuse Unit - Start ASAP

Join our dynamic and growing family department based from our Bristol office. This is an excellent opportunity for a dedicated, experienced individual seeking a challenging yet rewarding role who can lead our Domestic Abuse Unit. This is a full-time position (35 hours/week), Monday to Thursday 9 am to 5 pm, and Friday 8.30 am to 4 pm. We will consider applicants who wish to work from home on a hybrid basis.

This role offers a unique opportunity to shape the department's direction and make a significant impact within the firm.

Responsibilities:

Establish and grow the Domestic Abuse Unit within the Family Department including developing and implementing strategies for the effective management of a caseload of domestic abuse cases. Handle legal aid applications and manage both private and legal aid funded cases. Provide expert legal advice to vulnerable clients experiencing domestic violence, ensuring their rights and interests are protected, and advocating for their safety and well-being. Represent clients in court proceedings and negotiations, demonstrating strong advocacy skills. Recruit, mentor, and manage both trainee solicitors and support staff as the team grows while ensuring a high quality of work and client care. Engage in networking and marketing activities to promote the department and attract new clients. Ensure all work complies with legal regulations and the firm's policies. Stay updated on changes in legislation and legal practices relevant to domestic abuse and related family law.

Essential Criteria:

Qualified Solicitor with a minimum of 3 years PQE with proven track record in specialising in domestic abuse law. Experience of both private and legal aid funded work. Strong advocacy, negotiation skills and the ability to work effectively with vulnerable clients. Proficient in using legal case management systems. Willingness to travel for court appearances and client meetings as necessary. Commitment to high standards of client care and have the ability to successfully market the firm. Excellent written and verbal communication skills. Attention to detail and strong organisational abilities.

Desirable Criteria:

Demonstrated the ability to lead and develop a team. Experience in business development and client acquisition.

Our Offer:

Competitive salary: 40,000 - 47,000 per annum, dependant on skills and experience. Flexible work policy and Bike2Work Scheme. Comprehensive in-house training scheme. Opportunities for career progression.

How to Apply:

To embark on a rewarding career with Watkins Solicitors, please send your CV and a compelling covering letter. The closing date for this vacancy is

Friday 13th June 2025

. Interviews may occur sooner if sufficient and suitable candidates are received.

Diversity and Inclusion:

Watkins Solicitors welcomes applications from all sections of the community, irrespective of age, disability, gender reassignment, marriage and civil partnership, pregnancy and maternity, race, religion or belief, sex, and sexual orientation.

We work closely with employees to help them work at their best, including making adjustments such as flexible working, providing equipment or changes to the workplace. All candidates invited to interview have the opportunity to request adjustments to the recruitment process when scheduling your interview. Some options include communication support or breaks.

Job Types: Full-time, Permanent

Pay: 40,000.00-47,000.00 per year

Benefits:

Company pension Cycle to work scheme Work from home
Schedule:

Monday to Friday
Ability to commute/relocate:

Bristol BS3 1JF: reliably commute or plan to relocate before starting work (required)
Experience:

PQE: 3 years (required)
Work authorisation:

United Kingdom (required)
Work Location: Hybrid remote in Bristol BS3 1JF

Application deadline: 13/06/2025