About the Role
Due to continued organic growth we are looking to recruit a claimant clinical negligence solicitor or Legal Executive of NQ to 4 years’ experience (or equivalent) to join our growing client based in Leeds.
Their specialist team is passionate about the law and getting the right result for our clients. Whilst your caseload grows you will be expected to assist other members of the team with dedicated tasks. All of their cases are multi-track. Caseload numbers are dictated by complexity, though most will have < 40 cases at any one time. Support from paralegals and secretaries will be provided as necessary. An average caseload will include up to half of which are litigated.
The vast majority of their work is through recommendations and they attract both high-value, complex cases and smaller, more straight-forward claims. Our Client is the most accredited law firm in Yorkshire. Their wide range of specialist accreditations across the firm speaks of our expertise and provides security.
The successful candidate will have experience either exclusively or predominantly in running a claimant clinical negligence caseload. They will pride themselves on their excellent client care and be adept at communicating clearly, but sensitively. They will have a strong eye for detail, be thorough and efficient and able to meet strict deadlines. We are looking for someone who is passionate, technically competent, commercially aware and able to build on reputation for high quality legal services.
In return, you will be a key member of the team whose voice is heard and will be listened to. You will have every opportunity to develop professionally and put down roots. The silly question is the one you do not ask! You will find quickly that this is a safe learning environment where you will be supported and encouraged to develop.
KEY TASKS
Running a case load of Claimant Clinical Negligence matters.
Dealing with matters at all stages, from taking the client’s initial instructions through to archiving, in accordance with office and accounts procedures.
Taking instructions from clients and advising accordingly.
Instructing counsel or other experts where appropriate.
Representing clients at Court (including advocacy) as appropriate.
Obtaining and preparing file documentation.
Maintaining legal knowledge and skills.
Business Development.
Package
The salary will be dependent on experience. Please indicate both your current salary and salary expectations.
A share of the firm’s profits is also payable upon completion of a minimum qualifying term.
Workplace pension scheme.
Death in service benefit.
23 days paid holiday, increasing to 26 days from 1 year continuous service.
Lifeworks employee assistance program.
Members of the First Bus Commuter Travel Club which offers discounts for ‘normal’ bus travel and park and ride tickets.
Requirements
KEY SKILLS – ESSENTIAL
Critical thinking.
Ability to present and argue a case orally and in writing. Deal with technical details and to express solutions to complex legal problems in a concise and customer-friendly way.
Ability to work under pressure, prioritise workload and meet deadlines.
Ability to work on own initiative and as a member of the team.
Ability to deal with enquiries in a client-friendly and effective manner.
Good keyboard skills.
KNOWLEDGE
Windows, Word, MS Teams and Excel.
Solicitors Code of Conduct.
QUALIFICATION
Current Practising Certificate or equivalent.
APIL Litigator / Senior Litigator accredited (as commensurate with experience).
EXPERIENCE
NQ to 4 years PQE experience, or equivalent.
OTHER
Flexible and ‘can do’ attitude.
Excellent written and spoken English to produce documents for the clients, court, other parties and resolve telephone enquiries.
Satisfactory absence record or sound justification for high absenteeism.
Able to promote the image of the firm.