Job Description

Role Summary

The Litigation Solicitor will take responsibility for managing a caseload of disputes through all stages of litigation (pre-action, issuing proceedings, case management, trial or settlement) to deliver excellent legal service to clients. The role combines advisory, procedural, advocacy, negotiation and client-facing duties.

Key Responsibilities

Advise clients on the merits, risks and strategy of potential or ongoing disputes, including possible settlement or alternative dispute resolution Conduct pre-action steps: drafting letters of claim / response, negotiating settlement where possible Prepare and issue claims in the relevant court / tribunal, respond to claims, and manage procedural steps Draft pleadings, witness statements, affidavits, skeleton arguments, submissions, and other court documents Manage disclosure / disclosure review, interrogatories, requests for further information, expert instructions Liaise with barristers (Counsel) and instruct them as needed for hearings or trial Prepare bundles, court books, trial bundles, and other hearing material Represent clients in hearings, interlocutory matters, case management conferences, interim applications Attend mediation, settlement conferences, or alternative dispute resolution sessions Maintain a diary of court and filing deadlines, comply with procedural rules and court orders Keep clients regularly updated on progress, manage expectations, provide clear advice Oversee junior staff or assistants (paralegals, legal executives) supporting litigation matters Monitor legal developments, share insights and updates with team Budgeting, billing, costs management, and ensuring compliance with firm and regulatory standards Uphold professional ethics, maintain client confidentiality, and meet regulatory requirements (e.g. SRA rules)
Person Specification / Required Skills & ExperienceQualifications & Professional Requirements

Qualified Solicitor (England & Wales) Eligible / practising certificate in good standing Experience in litigation (civil / commercial / contested matters) Good knowledge of Civil Procedure Rules, court practice and procedure Experience in advocacy (or desire to develop advocacy skills)
Experience & Skills

Proven track record of managing a litigation caseload (pre-action to resolution) Skilled in drafting legal pleadings, witness statements, and other litigation documents Strong analytical, legal research and problem-solving abilities Good negotiation skills and settlement experience Comfortable working to tight deadlines and under pressure Excellent communication skills (verbal and written) Client-focused, ability to build relationships and manage client expectations Strong organisational skills, attention to detail, time management Ability to mentor / supervise more junior staff Proficiency in case management software, legal research tools, document management systems Ability to work both independently and as part of a team
Desirable / Nice-to-Have

Experience in a particular specialty (e.g. commercial, property, employment, insolvency) Advocacy experience in court or tribunal Experience in alternative dispute resolution (ADR), arbitration Experience in costs budgeting, costs recovery Business development / client generation skills Experience managing a litigation team or supervising more junior fee earners
Terms & Conditions / Benefits

Full-time / part-time option Competitive salary (commensurate with experience) Benefits (e.g. pension, holiday, CPD support) Opportunity for career progression Supportive training, mentoring and development
Job Types: Full-time, Permanent

Work Location: In person