Are you a Family Solicitor looking for genuine autonomy, a varied caseload, and clear progression?

We're working with a respected multi-office practice in the Manchester area that is looking to strengthen its Family team with the addition of a Family Solicitor or Chartered Legal Executive.

You'll handle a broad mix of both Private and Legal Aid matters, including:

• Divorce and financial remedy
• Private and public children matters
• Domestic abuse
• Care proceedings and Social Services matters
• Emergency applications and injunctions

This is a fantastic opportunity to join a supportive team where you'll be trusted to manage your own caseload from day one, while benefiting from long-term career development as the department continues to grow.

About You:

• Qualified Solicitor or Chartered Legal Executive
• Experience managing a family law caseload across Private and/or Legal Aid matters
• Confident handling your own files with minimal supervision
• Full UK driving licence and access to your own vehicle, as travel between Greater Manchester offices will be required

What's on Offer?

• Competitive salary, negotiable depending on experience
• Genuine career progression opportunities
• Supportive and collaborative working environment
• Varied, high-quality caseload with autonomy from the outset

If you're ready for your next move in Family Law, get in touch with Justine Forshaw on 0161 914 7357 or email j.forshaw@clayton-legal.co.uk for a confidential discussion.

An exciting opportunity has arisen for an experienced Plot Sales Conveyancer to join a well-established and highly regarded Real Estate team. This role offers the opportunity to work within a specialist conveyancing environment supporting a broad range of residential property transactions for developers, investors, lenders, and private clients.

The successful candidate will be responsible for issuing and preparing contract packs using pre-prepared standard documentation following receipt of memorandum of sale, dealing with pre-contract enquiries where required, processing exchanges of contracts, managing part exchange purchases and resales, preparing completion statements, and handling completion procedures. The role will also involve undertaking Land Registry applications and online SDLT returns for the wider property team, procuring conveyancing searches, handling incoming calls and correspondence, preparing outgoing post within required deadlines, opening and maintaining files, preparing bills, and using document production systems alongside Microsoft Word and Excel for reports and spreadsheets. From time to time, the successful candidate may also provide support to the wider Real Estate team.

Experience preparing site set-up documentation, including draft contracts, transfers, title packs, and related documents, would be advantageous but is not essential. Additional desirable experience includes liaising with clients and preferred solicitors regarding draft transfers and estate layout plans, dealing with deeds of easement and covenant, substation transfers, infrastructure and utility agreements, and handling the sale of freehold apartment blocks.

The successful applicant will join a specialist residential conveyancing team comprising solicitors, licensed conveyancers, legal executives, experienced conveyancers, paralegals, and support staff. The team is recognised for delivering exceptional levels of client service and managing a significant volume of residential transactions each year for a diverse client base that includes private individuals, developers, lenders, and property investors.

Candidates should possess proven experience within plot sales or residential conveyancing, strong organisational and communication skills, the ability to manage a busy caseload effectively, and experience using Land Registry systems and SDLT submissions. Strong IT skills and a proactive, team-oriented approach are also essential.

In return, the firm offers a competitive salary and benefits package, a supportive and collaborative working environment, access to high-quality and varied work, and genuine opportunities for career progression and professional development. The organisation is committed to fostering an inclusive workplace where all employees are treated fairly and with respect, and applications are welcomed from candidates of all backgrounds and experiences.

If you would like to apply or find out more, please send your CV to  t.carlisle@clayton-legal.co.uk   or call 0161 9147 357 for a confidential discussion.

Receptionist / Office Manager

Location: Chester

Salary: £25,000 - £28,000

We're recruiting on behalf of forward thinking and growing law firm seeking a Receptionist / Office Manager to become the face of the business and help ensure the smooth day-to-day

running of the office.

This is an excellent opportunity for someone who enjoys a varied role, thrives in a client-facing environment and takes pride in creating a welcoming, organised workplace.

The Role

You'll be the first point of contact for clients and visitors, delivering a professional front-of-house experience while overseeing the day-to-day management of the office.

Key responsibilities include:

• Greeting clients and visitors and preparing meeting rooms.
• Answering and directing calls.
• Assisting with client onboarding and enquiries.
• Managing office supplies, facilities and maintenance.
• Coordinating contractors and office services.
• Maintaining health and safety compliance.
• Supporting the wider team with general office administration.

About You

You'll have:

• Previous experience in reception, office management or a similar role.
• Hold flawless customer service skills
• Excellent organisational and communication skills.
• A proactive, hands-on approach.
• Good IT skills, including Microsoft Office.
• A friendly, professional manner and strong attention to detail.

Benefits

• Competitive salary.
• 25 days' annual leave plus bank holidays, with additional Christmas leave.
• Pension scheme.
• Employee Assistance Programme with healthcare benefits and Virtual GP access.
• Discounts on legal services.
• Career development and funded training opportunities.
• On-site gym, regular social events and a supportive working environment.

If you're looking for a varied role where you can make a real difference within a friendly and forward-thinking law firm, we'd love to hear from you.

Send your up to date CV across to Rebecca r.davies@clayton-legal.co.uk or call 0151 2301 208 to discuss further.

Lead a highly regarded Childcare team at a Legal 500-ranked law firm.

Our client, a Legal 500-recognised and highly respected law firm, is seeking an experienced Head of Childcare Department to lead its established and successful public law team.

This is a rare opportunity for an accomplished Children Panel Solicitor to step into a strategic leadership role, combining the management of a high-quality childcare caseload with the opportunity to shape, develop and inspire a dedicated team of 12 professionals, including Partners, solicitors, trainees and support staff.

Working within a collaborative and supportive environment, you'll play a pivotal role in driving the department's continued success while maintaining the exceptional client care and legal excellence for which the firm is recognised.

As Head of Department, you'll lead a busy and well-established Childcare team while managing your own varied caseload of public law matters. You'll provide technical supervision, strategic direction and operational oversight, ensuring the department continues to deliver outstanding results for clients.

Key responsibilities include:

• Managing a complex caseload of public childcare matters, including care proceedings, emergency protection applications, special guardianship orders and related family law issues.
• Providing advocacy and representation for parents, children, guardians and other parties.
• Supervising complex and high-risk cases across the department.
• Leading, mentoring and developing solicitors, trainees and support staff.
• Monitoring departmental performance, financial management and resource allocation.
• Ensuring compliance with Legal Aid Agency requirements, SRA regulations and court deadlines.
• Conducting appraisals and supporting ongoing training and development.

The ideal fit will be an experienced, approachable leader who enjoys developing others and thrives in a collaborative environment.

You'll have:

• 10+ years' PQE with extensive public childcare law experience.
• Membership of the Law Society's Children Panel.
• Excellent advocacy and case strategy skills.
• Proven experience leading and supervising legal teams.
• Strong knowledge of Legal Aid funding and compliance.
• A supportive, team-focused leadership style.

What's on Offer?

• Hybrid working.
• 25 days' annual leave plus bank holidays.
• Enhanced company sick pay.
• Discretionary bonus scheme (team and individual performance).
• Regular social events throughout the year.
• A genuinely supportive, collaborative culture.
• The opportunity to lead a highly respected Legal 500-recognised Childcare team with an outstanding reputation.

If you're looking to lead a successful Childcare department within a Legal 500 law firm where your leadership will make a genuine impact, we'd love to hear from you.

A fantastic opportunity for an experienced Private Client Solicitor to join a respected firm that combines tradition, excellence and a modern approach.

Are you a Private Client Solicitor looking for a long-term career opportunity with a firm that values quality, collaboration and professional development?

Our client is a highly respected law firm with almost 300 years of history, renowned for its strong reputation, stability and people-focused culture. Due to continued growth, they are seeking an experienced Private Client Solicitor (5+ years’ PQE or equivalent) to join their established and expanding team in Sevenoaks.

This is an excellent opportunity to become part of a successful Private Client department, working alongside experienced colleagues within a supportive and collaborative environment.

You will manage a varied and rewarding caseload of Private Client matters, including:

• Wills.
• Probate and estate administration.
• Lasting Powers of Attorney.
• Office of the Public Guardian matters.
• Court of Protection work.

You will be confident handling matters from initial instruction through to completion, providing high-quality legal advice while delivering exceptional client service.

You will be:

• An experienced Private Client Solicitor with 5+ years’ PQE or equivalent experience.
• Confident managing a varied caseload with minimal supervision.
• Experienced in advising clients across a broad range of Private Client matters.
• A strong communicator with excellent client care skills.
• A collaborative team player who enjoys contributing to the continued success of a department.

Why Join?

• Join a large, established Private Client team with an excellent reputation.
• Work for a firm that blends heritage, stability and a forward-thinking approach.
• Enjoy above-average holiday entitlement.
• Benefit from hybrid working to support a positive work-life balance.
• Be part of a genuinely supportive environment with excellent long-term career prospects.

This is a fantastic opportunity for an ambitious Private Client Solicitor seeking high-quality work, flexibility and the chance to build a successful career with a firm that has an exceptional legacy.

**NEW ROLE*** | Commercial Property Solicitor | Hybrid | Manchester | 

A highly regarded and well established traditional law firm based in south Manchester is looking to appoint a Commercial Property Solicitor to join their Property Department.

On a day to day basis this role will consist of a mixture of work be it secured lending with the other elements such as Acquisitions, Disposals, Leases and Landlord and Tenant therefore ideally you will be proficient in this area.

In return the firm will provide the successful candidate with a very competitive package and full team support within a respected and reputable longstanding law firm

This firm will also consider part time and offers a hybrid working model to suit the ideal candidate, offers 22 days holiday, plus Xmas shutdown, Birthday off, Death in Service, Medical insurance, Bonuses based on billings and a referral bonus.

If you would like to apply for this role please forward an up to date copy of your CV to Tracy Carlisle, t.carlisle@clayton-legal.co.uk or call 0161 9147 357 for an informal discussion.

Practice Manager

Job Title

Practice Manager

Reports To

Managing Partner / Board of Directors

Job Purpose

The Practice Manager is responsible for the overall management and performance of the law firm's operational, financial, and regulatory functions. This role ensures the firm operates efficiently, remains compliant with all legal and regulatory requirements, and achieves its financial and strategic objectives. The Practice Manager works closely with partners and department heads to support business growth, operational excellence, risk management, and client service delivery.

Key Responsibilities

Compliance & Risk Management

• Oversee the firm's compliance with all regulatory requirements, including Solicitors Regulation Authority (SRA) regulations, Anti-Money Laundering (AML) obligations, GDPR, and other relevant legislation.
• Act as the primary point of contact for compliance-related matters and support the firm's COLP and COFA functions where applicable.
• Develop, implement, and monitor policies, procedures, and internal controls to ensure regulatory compliance.
• Manage risk assessments, audits, file reviews, and compliance training programmes.
• Maintain regulatory records and ensure timely reporting to relevant authorities.
• Monitor changes in legislation and regulatory requirements and implement necessary updates across the firm.

Operations Management

• Lead and manage the day-to-day operational activities of the firm.
• Develop and improve operational processes to enhance efficiency, productivity, and client service.
• Oversee facilities management, supplier contracts, IT systems, and business support functions.
• Manage resource planning, staffing requirements, and operational budgets.
• Support strategic planning and the implementation of business improvement initiatives.
• Ensure effective business continuity and disaster recovery planning.

Financial Management

• Oversee the firm's financial performance, budgeting, forecasting, and cash flow management.
• Monitor profitability, financial KPIs, and departmental performance.
• Prepare and present financial reports to partners and senior leadership.
• Manage billing, credit control, financial compliance, and client account procedures.
• Work closely with external accountants, auditors, and financial advisers.
• Identify opportunities to improve financial performance and cost efficiency.

People Management

• Lead and develop administrative and support staff.
• Support recruitment, onboarding, performance management, and staff development initiatives.
• Promote a positive, collaborative, and high-performing workplace culture.
• Ensure compliance with employment legislation and HR best practices.

Strategic Leadership

• Contribute to the firm's strategic planning and growth objectives.
• Support business development initiatives and operational scalability.
• Provide management information and recommendations to support informed decision-making.
• Drive continuous improvement projects across the firm.

Skills & Experience

Essential

• Previous experience in a Practice Manager, Operations Manager, Business Manager, or similar leadership role within a law firm or professional services environment.
• Strong knowledge of SRA regulations, AML requirements, GDPR, and legal sector compliance obligations.
• Demonstrable experience in financial management, budgeting, and reporting.
• Excellent organisational, leadership, and project management skills.
• Strong commercial awareness and business acumen.
• Excellent communication and stakeholder management abilities.
• Proficiency in legal practice management systems and Microsoft Office applications.

Desirable

• Professional qualification in management, finance, compliance, or business administration.
• Experience supporting COLP and/or COFA functions.
• Knowledge of legal accounting rules and Solicitors Accounts Rules.

Key Competencies

• Leadership and people management
• Strategic thinking
• Financial acumen
• Regulatory awareness
• Problem-solving and decision-making
• Communication and influencing skills
• Change management
• Attention to detail

Performance Measures

• Regulatory compliance and audit outcomes
• Financial performance against budget
• Operational efficiency and service delivery standards
• Staff engagement and retention
• Successful implementation of strategic initiatives
• Client satisfaction and service quality

Salary

Competitive, dependent upon experience.

Benefits

• Pension scheme
• Annual leave entitlement
• Professional development support
• Flexible working arrangements (where applicable)
• Additional firm-specific benefits

Job Title: Employment Solicitor (3+ PQE)

Location: Birmingham (Hybrid Working)

Salary: Competitive + Excellent Benefits

Contract Type: Full-time, Permanent

Join a Leading Regional Law Firm with a Top-Tier Employment Practice

We are working with a prestigious national law firm that is looking to expand its highly regarded Employment team with the appointment of an experienced Employment Solicitor in their  office.

This is a fantastic opportunity to join a firm known for its collaborative culture, high-quality work, and excellent career development prospects.

The Role:

As a key member of the Employment team, you will handle a broad mix of contentious and non-contentious employment matters for a diverse client base that includes major corporates, public sector bodies, and senior executives.

Key Responsibilities:

• Advising on disciplinary and grievance procedures, redundancies, TUPE, and restructures

   

• Handling Employment Tribunal litigation from inception to resolution

   

• Drafting and negotiating employment contracts, policies, and settlement agreements

   

• Providing corporate support on employment matters relating to mergers and acquisitions

   

• Delivering training and legal updates to clients

   

About You:

• Qualified Solicitor with at least 3 years' PQE in Employment law

   

• Strong technical knowledge and a commercial, solutions-focused approach

   

• Experience managing client relationships and working independently on complex matters

   

• Excellent communication and organisational skills

   

• A team player who is looking to be part of a growing and ambitious practice

   

What's On Offer:

• The chance to work with market-leading lawyers on high-profile cases

   

• Hybrid and flexible working options

   

• Clear progression opportunities and tailored career development

   

• Competitive salary and benefits package including bonus, pension, and private healthcare

   

Ready to take the next step in your Employment law career?

Apply now to join a national powerhouse with an outstanding reputation in Employment law.

Let me know if you want this tailored further to reflect your company tone or branding.

Complaints & Claims Manager (Part-Time)

Location: City of London - Hybrid

Hours: Up to 3 days per week (22.5 hours maximum)

Salary: £75,000 - £95,000

About Us

We are a well-established and client-focused law firm committed to delivering exceptional legal services. We pride ourselves on maintaining the highest professional standards and continuously improving our client experience.

We are seeking an experienced and highly organised Complaints & Claims Manager to oversee the firm's complaints handling process and manage professional negligence claims. This is an excellent opportunity for a legal professional with strong risk management and regulatory experience who is looking for a flexible, part-time role.

The Role

Reporting to the firm's senior management team, you will take ownership of all client complaints and claims, ensuring they are handled efficiently, professionally, and in accordance with regulatory requirements.

You will play a key role in protecting the firm's reputation, identifying trends, reducing risk, and driving continuous improvement across the business.

Key Responsibilities

• Manage the firm's complaints process from receipt through to resolution.
• Investigate complaints thoroughly, impartially and within regulatory timescales.
• Draft high-quality responses to clients and third parties.
• Manage professional negligence claims and liaise with the firm's insurers and external solicitors where required.
• Ensure compliance with Solicitors Regulation Authority (SRA) requirements and the Legal Ombudsman process.
• Maintain accurate records and produce management reports on complaints and claims activity.
• Analyse trends and identify opportunities to improve client service and reduce future complaints.
• Provide guidance and support to partners and staff on complaints handling and risk management.
• Deliver training and promote best practice across the firm.
• Assist with wider compliance and risk management initiatives as required.

About You

The successful candidate will have:

• Previous experience managing complaints within a law firm or regulated legal environment.
• Experience handling professional negligence claims.
• Excellent knowledge of SRA regulations and Legal Ombudsman procedures.
• Strong investigative, analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Exceptional written and verbal communication skills.
• Confidence in dealing with challenging situations with professionalism and empathy.
• Excellent organisational skills with the ability to manage multiple matters simultaneously.
• A proactive approach with a focus on continuous improvement.

Desirable

• Experience in legal risk and compliance.
• A legal qualification or relevant compliance/risk management qualification.
• Experience delivering training or coaching colleagues.

What We Offer

• Flexible part-time working (up to three days per week).
• Hybrid working opportunities.
• Competitive salary.
• Supportive and collaborative working environment.
• Opportunity to influence firm-wide quality and client care standards.
• Ongoing professional development.

I am working with a top-ranked criminal defence firm that is looking to appoint an ambitious, commercially minded and driven Qualified Solicitor to join its Serious Fraud & Organised Crime Department.

This is a fantastic opportunity for a Solicitor who wants genuine exposure to complex, high-profile criminal defence work, alongside experienced Senior Solicitors and Partners within a respected team.

You will also have the opportunity to work alongside a highly ranked criminal defence lawyer who has been featured in the Mail on Sunday, Sunday Times and Sunday Telegraph after being recognised as one of Britain’s top-rated solicitors.

The successful candidate will have experience handling serious fraud, organised crime and complex criminal matters, with a passion for delivering exceptional client care and achieving the best possible outcomes for clients.

This role is not just about running cases — it is about being involved in strategy, analysing evidence, challenging decisions and playing a key role in the direction of complex investigations and prosecutions.

You will be responsible for:

• Managing your own caseload of complex criminal matters involving significant volumes of digital evidence.
• Preparing detailed analysis documents and case strategies.
• Conducting legal research on complex and developing areas of law.
• Dealing with novel legal issues and providing commercially focused advice.
• Working closely with colleagues as part of a specialist team.
• Playing an active role in shaping case strategy and client outcomes.
• Developing your knowledge and experience of asset recovery legislation, including the Proceeds of Crime Act 2002, Serious Crime Act 2015 and Criminal Finances Act 2017.

This opportunity would suit a Solicitor who:

• Has experience handling serious fraud and/or organised crime matters.
• Is confident managing their own caseload with minimal supervision.
• Has excellent analytical skills and strong attention to detail.
• Can manage pressure while maintaining outstanding client care.
• Enjoys working on complex legal issues and finding solutions.
• Is a strong communicator who works well within a team.
• Takes ownership, shows initiative and is motivated to progress.

You will also have strong drafting skills, experience preparing legal documents and the ability to work confidently with digital evidence and detailed case materials.

Why Consider This Opportunity?

This is an excellent opportunity to join a specialist criminal defence team handling some of the most challenging and interesting work in the market.

You will work alongside highly experienced lawyers, gain exposure to complex and high-profile cases, and have the opportunity to develop your career within a respected and ambitious practice.

The role is based from the firm’s Hayes office, located in a rapidly regenerating area of West London. Hayes has become increasingly popular with commuters and families due to its affordability, excellent transport links and convenient access into central London.

If you are a Solicitor who thrives on complex work, wants responsibility and enjoys being part of a close-knit specialist team, this could be the move you have been looking for.

All applications will be handled with complete confidentiality.

If you would like to have a confidential conversation about this opportunity, please get in touch.