NQ Family Solicitor

  • Halifax
  • Permanent
  • £30k - 35k per year + Excellent & top tier bens

Just qualified in Family Law? Ready for a role where you'll actually be given the opportunity to develop?

Your first qualified role can shape the direction of your career. So, rather than joining a firm where you're expected to simply get on with it, why not join one that will invest in you, support your development and give you the opportunity to build your confidence and expertise from day one?

Our client is a long-established and highly respected regional law firm, with more than 100 years of experience supporting clients and communities across West Yorkshire.

They're now looking for a Newly Qualified Family Solicitor to join their growing team — and this is a role designed for someone who wants to learn, develop and build a genuine long-term career in Family Law.

You'll get real responsibility, meaningful client contact and hands-on experience, but with the benefit of experienced Family Solicitors around you to provide guidance and support.

You'll work across a broad mix of private and Legal Aid Family Law, giving you the opportunity to develop a well-rounded skillset rather than being restricted to one area of work.

Your caseload will include:

  • Divorce and financial remedy matters
  • Private children disputes
  • Domestic abuse applications
  • Legal Aid Family Law, including eligible children matters
  • Advising and supporting clients through often challenging circumstances
  • Managing your own files and developing your confidence as a qualified solicitor

And importantly, you won't be left to figure it all out yourself.

You'll receive regular supervision, mentoring and support from experienced Family Solicitors who are invested in helping you become the lawyer you want to be.

What you'll get in return

  • Genuine investment in your development
  • Regular supervision and mentoring from experienced Family Solicitors
  • Valuable experience across private and Legal Aid work
  • High levels of client contact from an early stage
  • The opportunity to build and manage your own caseload
  • A friendly, collaborative and supportive team
  • Clear opportunities to progress as your experience develops
  • The backing of a highly respected regional firm with an excellent reputation across West Yorkshire
  • The opportunity to build a long-term career rather than simply finding your first qualified job

About you

You'll be a Newly Qualified Solicitor with a genuine passion for Family Law and the enthusiasm to continue learning and developing.

You'll ideally have gained some exposure to Family Law during your training contract and will be keen to broaden your experience across both privately funded and Legal Aid work.

You'll also have:

  • Excellent communication and client care skills
  • A compassionate and professional approach
  • Strong organisation and attention to detail
  • The ability to work collaboratively within a close-knit team
  • A proactive attitude and genuine willingness to learn

If you're an NQ looking for a Family Law role where you'll be supported, trusted and given the opportunity to grow, this could be the ideal next step.

Don't just start your legal career. Start it somewhere that will invest in it.

Apply To This Role

    Head of Private Client

    • Newcastle upon Tyne
    • Permanent
    • £55k - 65k per year + ex bens

    A senior opportunity with genuine leadership potential

    Our client is offering an excellent opportunity for an experienced Private Client Solicitor to take the lead of an established and growing Private Client Department.

    With a strong reputation and a forward-thinking approach, our client is looking for a senior solicitor who is not only technically excellent, but who genuinely enjoys developing people, delivering outstanding client service and shaping the future direction of a successful team.

    This is a role that offers far more than simply heading up a department. The successful solicitor will become part of the wider management team, working alongside partners and department heads and having a genuine opportunity to influence the continued growth and development of the business.

    The benefits package includes: 

    • Competitive salary and performance-related bonus
    • Staff bonus scheme - available after one completed financial year
    • Pension with matched contributions up to 5%
    • Death in Service benefit of four times annual salary
    • 18 weeks' full-pay maternity leave, followed by 8 weeks at half pay for eligible employees
    • Two weeks' full-pay paternity leave
    • Additional contractual adoption and shared parental leave pay
    • Up to 20 days' sickness pay
    • Christmas Club savings scheme
    • Friends and family discount on legal services
    • Free wills for staff
    • Discounted travel schemes, including POP cards and Railcards
    • Discounted city-centre car parking
    • Paid time off for fertility treatment
    • Supportive, inclusive working environment
    • Genuine opportunities for professional development and career progression

    The opportunity

    The successful candidate will lead and manage the Private Client team, creating a culture built around collaboration, technical excellence and continuous development.

    The role will combine hands-on legal expertise with strategic leadership, including advising on wills, trusts, estate planning, probate and tax matters, while providing supervision, mentoring and training across the department.

    They will also play a key role in: 

    • Developing and implementing the department's strategy
    • Supporting the continued growth of the Private Client offering
    • Driving business development and strengthening client relationships
    • Encouraging knowledge sharing and best practice
    • Ensuring high standards of regulatory and legal compliance
    • Supporting the career development and progression of team members

    The team

    The successful solicitor will inherit an established and varied team comprising an Associate Solicitor, Solicitor, Trainee Solicitor, Paralegal, two Personal Assistants, Customer Relationship Manager and Administration Assistant.

    They will also become part of the wider management structure, working alongside the firm's partners and other department heads.

    About you

    Our client is looking for a qualified solicitor with 8+ years' PQE and a strong background in Private Client work.

    You'll ideally bring: 

    • Strong technical expertise across estate planning, trusts, tax and probate
    • Proven leadership and supervisory experience
    • A genuine passion for mentoring and developing others
    • Excellent interpersonal and communication skills
    • A supportive, approachable leadership style
    • Commercial awareness and a proactive approach to business development
    • The confidence to contribute at a strategic management level
    • STEP qualification, or a willingness to work towards it, is highly desirable

    This is an exciting opportunity for a senior Private Client solicitor who is ready to step into a genuine leadership position, develop a talented team and help shape the next stage of an established department's growth.

    Apply To This Role

      Legal Secretary / Administrator

      • Chester-le-Street
      • Permanent
      • £23.5k - 25k per year + ex holiday leave

      An exciting opportunity has arisen for an experienced Legal Secretary or Legal Administrator to join an established and highly regarded law firm, supporting a long-standing Partner.

      This is a great opportunity to become a valued member of a friendly and professional team, taking on a varied role that combines legal secretarial support, administration, Legal Aid billing and compliance responsibilities.

      The Role

      Predominantly supporting a Childcare Partner, your responsibilities will include:

      • Providing comprehensive administrative and secretarial support
      • Preparing and managing Legal Aid billing, including more complex matters
      • Supporting the COLP/COFA functions
      • Preparing and organising court bundles
      • Managing diaries and appointments
      • General administrative duties across the team
      • Using systems such as LEAP and Bundledocs
      • Occasional attendance at court when required

      The ideal candidate will have previous experience in a legal environment and be confident providing high-quality administrative and secretarial support.

      Experience of Legal Aid billing, bundle preparation, diary management and COLP/COFA support are essential. Knowledge of LEAP and Bundledocs is also desirable, although full training will be provided.

      This role would suit someone who is organised, proactive and comfortable working independently, while also being a reliable and supportive member of the wider team.

      What’s on Offer?

      • Above-average annual leave entitlement
      • A varied and interesting role within an established law firm
      • The opportunity to work closely with a senior Partner
      • Support and training on systems including LEAP and Bundledocs
      • Flexibility around working hours for candidates who need a more tailored working pattern

      Although the role is office-based and does not offer hybrid working, the firm is open to discussing flexible hours, making this an attractive opportunity for candidates looking for a better work-life balance without compromising on career development.

      If you have solid legal secretarial or legal administration experience and are looking for a varied role where your contribution will genuinely be valued, this could be an excellent next move.

      Apply To This Role

        Conveyancing Fee Earner

        • Middlesbrough
        • Permanent
        • £35k - 50k per year + Bonus

        A great opportunity for an experienced Conveyancing Fee Earner looking for a firm that genuinely values its people.

        Clayton Legal is delighted to be working with an established, growing and highly regarded law firm based in the Teesside area, that is looking to strengthen its residential property team with the appointment of an experienced Conveyancing Fee Earner.

        This is a firm that takes its work seriously, but doesn't believe that means taking itself too seriously.

        The team works incredibly hard, but there's a real emphasis on creating an enjoyable, supportive environment where people are recognised and appreciated for the contribution they make.

        The Role

        As a Conveyancing Fee Earner, you will take responsibility for your own caseload of residential property matters, providing a high-quality service to clients from instruction through to completion.

        Your caseload will include:

        • Freehold and leasehold sales and purchases
        • Managing files from initial instruction through to completion
        • Reviewing title documentation and searches
        • Raising and responding to enquiries
        • Preparing contracts and transfer documentation
        • Liaising with clients, estate agents, lenders and other solicitors
        • Managing exchange and completion
        • Ensuring matters progress efficiently and within required timescales
        • Maintaining excellent levels of client care throughout

        About You

        We're looking for someone with previous experience managing their own residential conveyancing caseload.

        You may be a Conveyancing Fee Earner, Licensed Conveyancer, CILEX professional or Solicitor, but most importantly, you'll have the technical knowledge and experience to manage your own files confidently.

        You'll also be:

        • Client-focused and commercially aware
        • Highly organised with excellent attention to detail
        • Comfortable managing deadlines and competing priorities
        • A strong communicator
        • Proactive in progressing matters
        • A positive team player who enjoys working collaboratively

        Why Join?

        It's not just the role that's attractive here, it's the environment.

        The firm has built a genuinely friendly team where hard work is recognised and people are encouraged to enjoy their working environment.

        Alongside 22 days' holiday plus Bank Holidays, employees can also benefit from:

        • Competitive salary dependent on experience, from £35k-£50k
        • Bonus scheme
        • Extended leave over Christmas, at the Directors' discretion
        • An early Christmas break, provided by the firm with no requirement to use annual leave
        • Regular team treats and celebrations
        • Cake, buffets and takeaways when there's something to celebrate
        • The occasional Friday afternoon early finish
        • A supportive, close-knit team environment where people look out for one another

        Sometimes it's the small things that make the biggest difference and and this is a firm that understands that.

        Interested?

        If you're an experienced Conveyancing Fee Earner and the opportunity to join a successful firm with a genuinely positive team culture sounds appealing, I'd love to hear from you.

        To apply for this Conveyancing Fee Earner role please send a copy of your CV to Adam Dell'Armi at a.dellarmi@clayton-legal.co.uk or alternatively give me a call on 01133 979929 to discuss further.

        Clayton Legal recruits for law firms and In House departments across the UK. Based in the North West, our pedigree and service levels give those looking to move in the legal market and law firms looking to recruit a refreshingly different recruitment experience. You will work with experienced professionals, dedicated to your success. Take a look at our web site www.clayton-legal.co.uk for our latest blogs and legal news and to keep up to date with current vacancies.

         

        Apply To This Role

          NQ Solicitor – Employment

          • London
          • Permanent
          • £40k - 45k per year

          Newly Qualified Solicitor - Claimant Employment

          Location: The Shard, City of London

          Working Pattern: Hybrid

          Level: Newly Qualified Solicitor (NQ)

          Type: Full-time

          About the Role

          We are seeking a talented and ambitious Newly Qualified Solicitor (Employment) to join our growing team in the City of London.

          This is an exciting opportunity for an NQ solicitor who has gained experience working on claimant-side of Employment and is looking to develop their career within a dynamic, high-quality legal practice.

          Based from our offices in The Shard, you will work as part of a collaborative team handling a varied and interesting caseload, with the opportunity to take responsibility for your own matters while benefiting from the support and experience of senior colleagues.

          The role offers a hybrid working arrangement, providing flexibility alongside regular collaboration with the wider team in our London office.

          Key Responsibilities

          • Managing a caseload of claimant matters from inception through to resolution.

             

          • Conducting legal research and providing clear, commercially focused advice to clients.

             

          • Drafting pleadings, correspondence, witness statements and other legal documentation.

             

          • Liaising with clients, counsel, experts and other professional advisers.

             

          • Preparing cases for negotiation, mediation and, where appropriate, litigation.

             

          • Attending client meetings, conferences and hearings as required.

             

          • Developing and maintaining strong client relationships.

             

          • Working collaboratively with colleagues while taking ownership of your matters.

             

          • Contributing to the continued growth and development of the team's claimant practice.

             

          About You

          We are looking for someone who is:

          • A newly qualified solicitor or due to qualify shortly.

             

          • Able to demonstrate experience in claimant-side work, ideally through their training contract or previous legal experience.

             

          • Confident managing competing priorities and working to deadlines.

             

          • A strong communicator with excellent written and interpersonal skills.

             

          • Client-focused and commercially aware.

             

          • Analytical, organised and attentive to detail.

             

          • Keen to take responsibility and develop their own caseload.

             

          • A collaborative team player with a genuine interest in claimant work.

             

          What We Offer

          • A competitive salary and benefits package.

             

          • Hybrid working.

             

          • A modern office in The Shard, London Bridge.

             

          • High-quality and varied claimant work.

             

          • Excellent opportunities for professional development and career progression.

             

          • A supportive and collaborative working environment.

             

          • Early responsibility and the opportunity to build your own expertise and client relationships.

             

          Apply

          If you are an ambitious NQ solicitor with claimant-side experience and are looking for your next opportunity in a leading City location, we would be delighted to hear from you.

          Please submit your CV along with a covering letter outlining your experience and interest in the role.

          Apply To This Role

            Care Solicitor

            • Manchester
            • Permanent
            • £40k - 65k per year

            Looking for a Care role where you can build your career, have genuine flexibility and be rewarded for your success?

            An established and experienced Public Law Children / Care team in Manchester is looking for a Care Solicitor to join them.

            You could be NQ or highly experienced - there's no PQE ceiling. Children Panel accreditation would be a bonus, but it's not essential, with support available for the right candidate to work towards Panel.

            You will be joining a strong team of experienced specialists, with plenty of support around you, but also the opportunity to take ownership of your caseload, develop client relationships and play a real part in the continued growth of the department.

            Why work here?

            This is a firm that genuinely invests in its people. Teamwork is a big part of the culture, with colleagues working together for clients rather than simply focusing on billing figures. You will have access to specialist knowledge across a multi-office firm, ongoing training and genuine support for your development and wellbeing. It's a place for ambitious lawyers who want to keep learning, progress their careers and be part of a successful team.

            What's on offer?

            • Hybrid and genuinely flexible working
            • Option to work your hours across 4 days
            • 15% bonus when billing 2.5x salary
            • 23 days' holiday, rising to 33 days with service
            • Christmas closure without using annual leave
            • Support towards Children Panel accreditation

            The bonus scheme could be particularly attractive if you're ambitious and motivated by earning potential, with strong bonuses being paid across the business.

            What are they looking for?

            Someone with solid Public Law Children / Care experience who is confident advocating for clients and managing their own caseload.

            You will ideally be:

            Ambitious | Client-focused | A strong advocate | Commercially aware | Growth-minded

            If you're looking for more than simply processing a caseload and want a role where you can progress, increase your earning potential and have genuine ownership of your career, I would be keen to speak with you.

            Please get in touch with Justine for a confidential chat on 0161 914 7357 or email your CV to j.forshaw@clayton-legal.co.uk

            Apply To This Role

              NQ Private Client Solicitor

              • Southport
              • Permanent
              • £35k per year

              NQ Private Client Solicitor

              Looking for your next step in Private Client? This could be a great opportunity to build on your wills and probate experience within a small, busy team where client care really matters.

              A long-established law firm with offices across Southport and the Liverpool area is looking for a Trainee Solicitor or NQ Solicitor with at least one year's experience in wills and probate work.

              You'll be working closely with clients and taking responsibility for a varied caseload across estate administration, drafting wills, LPA's and probate matters.  They are looking for someone with a genuine interest in Private Client, good knowledge of current wills and probate law and the confidence to deal with clients professionally and empathetically.

              LEAP experience would be useful but isn't essential, and you'll have the opportunity to continue developing your Private Client expertise as your career progresses.

              If you're a Trainee Solicitor approaching qualification or an NQ Solicitor looking for a role where you can get stuck into Private Client work and build your experience, I'd love to hear from you.  Please call Justine on 0161 914 7357 or send your CV to j.forshaw@clayton-legal.co.uk

              Apply To This Role

                Conveyancing Assistant

                • Selby
                • Permanent
                • £25.5k - 29k per year

                My client, a well-established law firm, who provide Legal services across the West & North Yorkshire market are looking at appointing a Conveyancing Assistant to join their team.

                This is an exciting opportunity for an ambitious Conveyancing Assistant to develop their career with one of the leading law firms in North Yorkshire, with long term opportunities for progression. 

                Role Summary

                The Assistant is expected to assist Legal Advisers on residential conveyancing transactions and processing purchases and sales.  The Assistant is expected to use a high degree of self-management and initiative with a proven ability to provide comprehensive administrative support to the Legal Advisers and team to ensure achievement of business objectives and assist in the provision of an efficient, personal and professional service at all times. 

                Key Responsibilities

                • Supporting Legal Advisers within the team in both individual transactions and as part of wider team projects.
                • To attend clients both in person and on the telephone and to provide assistance in a professional and friendly manner in keeping with the firm's standards for client care.
                • Giving estimates of costs to new clients.
                • To be responsible for the opening of files on firm's case management system (Proclaim) and their day to day maintenance in accordance with the department's Risk Management procedures.
                • Drafting and negotiating transactional documentation.
                • To carry out copy typing of correspondence and documents, amending and formatting complex documents e.g. leases and dealing with tracked changes and use of package precedent document(s).  Ensuring that such correspondence and documents are checked for errors before passing to the Legal Adviser.
                • Dealing with pre exchange of contract work that has been delegated by a Legal Adviser to you using Proclaim.
                • Dealing with post-exchange work and registrations.
                • Dealing with post-completion work. Preparation and submission of SDLT forms online, stamping of documents, registration and scheduling of deeds.
                • To prepare invoices, completion statements and complete Accounts documentation as and when directed by the Legal Adviser.
                • Assist tenant, solicitors and colleagues with Right to Buy enquiries.
                • Assist tenants with completion of Right To Buy application forms (over the phone, face to face meetings at the office or at the tenants' homes).
                • To use the Land Registry Portal for downloading official copies, copy documents and plans and relevant registrations and saving to matter number, and carrying out priority and Land Charges searches.
                • To use Companies House Direct to carry out searches and property searches using agents.
                • To ensure the confidentiality of all the firm's and client's documentation and information.
                • To ensure compliance with Money Laundering Regulations.
                • Support Legal Advisor in preparing monthly/quarterly reports.
                • Dealing with incoming post and filing.
                • Support Legal Advisor/deal with monthly file reviews.
                • To achieve agreed levels of time-recording (as appropriate) and such other tasks as may be required from time to time.
                • To undertake any specific training when required to do so and overall to have a responsibility towards self-development.
                • To undertake any other reasonable duties as required by the Legal Advisor or Head of Department.

                PERSON SPECIFICATION 

                   

                Knowledge     

                • Good knowledge of property processes and procedures   
                • Familiarity with legal terms and documents. Familiar with completing forms or orders on the internet 
                • Excellent verbal, written communication and interpersonal skills
                • Good IT skills and knowledge of office systems and procedures and file management

                They offer a competitive salary from £25,500 to £29,000 dependent on experience and benefits package - which includes 25 days holiday (plus bank holidays) per year, career progression opportunities, health cash plan, death in service scheme, birthday off work and generous staff discounts. 

                 

                They also provide a fully supportive background to your Continuous Professional Development within a friendly team environment.  

                To apply for this Conveyancing Assistant role please send a copy of your CV to Adam Dell'Armi at a.dellarmi@clayton-legal.co.uk or alternatively give me a call on 01133 979929 to discuss further.

                Clayton Legal recruits for law firms and In House departments across the UK. Based in the North West, our pedigree and service levels give those looking to move in the legal market and law firms looking to recruit a refreshingly different recruitment experience. You will work with experienced professionals, dedicated to your success. Take a look at our web site www.clayton-legal.co.uk for our latest blogs and legal news and to keep up to date with current vacancies.

                Apply To This Role

                  PI Fee Earner

                  • Scunthorpe
                  • Permanent
                  • DOE

                  I'm Hiring! Personal Injury & Medical Negligence Solicitor / CILEX Lawyer / Paralegal

                  I'm currently recruiting on behalf of my client, who is looking for an experienced Personal Injury and/or Medical Negligence legal professional to join their team in either Scunthorpe or Hull.

                  I'm keen to hear from Solicitors, CILEX Lawyers and experienced Paralegals with a background in Personal Injury and/or Medical Negligence who may be considering their next career move.

                  My client is an established, progressive law firm with a history dating back to 1984, offering a supportive working environment and a strong commitment to excellent client care.

                  The role will involve managing a varied caseload of Personal Injury and Medical Negligence matters, with support from the Head of Department and secretarial assistance.

                  They are looking for someone who is motivated, organised, and confident in managing their own caseload, with strong communication skills and a genuine commitment to achieving the best possible outcomes for clients.

                  Ideally, candidates will have at least three years' relevant experience, although those with a strong and suitable background are also encouraged to get in touch.

                  This is a great opportunity to join an established firm, work alongside an experienced team and develop your career within Personal Injury and Medical Negligence.

                  Location: Scunthorpe or Hull

                  Positions: Solicitor / CILEX Lawyer / Paralegal

                  Interested, or know someone who might be a good fit?

                  Please get in touch with me directly for a confidential chat or further information.

                  Chris Orrell

                  c.orrell@clayton-legal.co.uk

                  0 161 914 7357

                  Feel free to share this post with anyone who might be interested!

                   

                  Apply To This Role

                    Personal Injury Solicitor / CILEX

                    • Nottingham
                    • Permanent
                    • DOE

                    Personal Injury Solicitor / Chartered Legal Executive - 3+ PQE

                    Location: Nottingham

                    Department: Personal Injury

                    Experience: 3+ years PQE

                    Ready to take the next step in your Personal Injury career?

                    Do you want to join an award-winning law firm and take the next step in your career?

                    My client is  looking for a dedicated and enthusiastic Personal Injury Solicitor or Chartered Legal Executive with Litigation Rights, with at least 3 years' PQE, to join a successful and growing Personal Injury team.

                    This is an excellent opportunity for a proactive and ambitious legal professional to further develop their skills and knowledge within a busy, supportive, and collaborative environment.

                    You'll manage a varied caseload of EL/PL Portal and non-Portal claims from start to finish, including litigated matters. You'll have the autonomy to run your own files while benefiting from the support and expertise of an experienced team.

                    They're  looking for someone who is highly engaged, commercially aware and keen to make a genuine contribution to the continued success of the team.

                    If you're ambitious, work hard and want to make a difference, I'd love to hear from you.

                    The role

                    Your responsibilities will include:

                     

                    • Handling EL/PL claims from start to finish with minimal supervision, including litigated cases, predominantly fast track, as well as some multi-track claims.
                    • Managing a large volume of new and existing Portal and non-Portal claims.
                    • Preparing your own correspondence, documents, and legal documentation.
                    • Using the firm's case management system effectively.
                    • Providing clients with clear, practical advice and effective solutions.
                    • Meeting agreed fee and time-recording targets.
                    • Building and maintaining strong relationships with other teams within the firm.
                    • Developing and maintaining relationships with existing clients and referrers of work.
                    • Identifying and developing opportunities to generate new work.
                    • Contributing positively to the wider development and success of the Personal Injury team.

                    Technical knowledge

                    You'll have a strong working knowledge of:

                     

                    • The Personal Injury Protocol for Low Value Personal Injury (Employers' Liability and Public Liability) Claims.
                    • The Pre-Action Protocol for Personal Injury Claims.
                    • The Civil Procedure Rules.
                    • The Damages Claims Portal.
                    • Relevant primary and secondary legislation and case law.

                    Skills and experience

                    They 're looking for someone who can demonstrate:

                     

                    • Qualification as a Solicitor or Chartered Legal Executive with Litigation Rights, with at least 3 years' PQE.
                    • Relevant experience handling EL/PL claims.
                    • Strong financial and commercial awareness, with an understanding of the importance of profitability.
                    • Excellent client relationship skills and the ability to exceed client expectations.
                    • The ability to provide a cost-effective service and meet financial KPIs.
                    • Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
                    • Strong initiative, judgement and problem-solving abilities.
                    • Ambition and a genuine desire to progress your career.
                    • A collaborative and positive approach to working as part of a team.
                    • Enthusiasm and a professional, personable approach.
                    • A desire to make your mark and make a difference.
                    • Excellent attention to detail while maintaining efficient progress.
                    • The ability to prioritise and manage a busy caseload.
                    • Excellent organisational skills.
                    • Strong academic qualifications.
                    • Strong IT skills.

                    Why join?

                    This is an opportunity to join an award-winning legal team where you'll have the opportunity to take ownership of your caseload, develop your expertise and play an important role in the continued growth of the Personal Injury department.

                    You'll be joining a supportive and collaborative environment that values initiative, client service, and individual contribution, while providing the opportunity to develop your career and take on greater responsibility.

                    Please send an updated CV to c.orrell@clayton-legal.co.uk or call Chris on 0161 914 7357 to discuss the role further.

                     

                    Apply To This Role