Family Solicitor NQ - 3 years PQE

We are seeking a client-focused Family Solicitor to join an established multi-practice area firm. This role offers the opportunity to manage a varied caseload of private family matters, provide clear and practical advice to clients and contribute to the continued development of the family team. The successful candidate will work closely with clients, counsel, experts and other professionals to progress matters efficiently while maintaining high standards of client care.

Location: Cheshire Area, Hybrid. Typical PQE: NQ - 3 years.

Key responsibilities:

• Manage a varied caseload of private family matters including divorce and separation, financial remedy, cohabitation disputes, private children matters, domestic abuse and pre- and post-nuptial agreements.

• Provide clear, sensitive and pragmatic legal advice to clients, explaining options, risks and likely outcomes in an accessible manner.

• Draft and review correspondence, statements, applications, court documents, consent orders, financial disclosure documents and other legal documentation using firm precedents and bespoke drafting where required.

• Conduct negotiations and support clients through dispute resolution processes including mediation, collaborative practice and solicitor-led negotiation where appropriate.

• Prepare matters for court hearings, liaise with counsel and experts, attend hearings where required and ensure all directions and deadlines are met.

• Maintain accurate and comprehensive matter records, manage client communications and progress files efficiently from initial instruction through to conclusion.

• Complete client onboarding, conflict checks, risk assessments, anti-money laundering checks and other compliance requirements in accordance with firm procedures and regulatory obligations.

• Work collaboratively with colleagues, support staff, counsel, experts and other professionals to deliver a high-quality and responsive service.

• Contribute to the development of team precedents, processes and knowledge-sharing initiatives and support the firm’s wider business development activities where appropriate.

Key skills and experience:

• Qualified solicitor in England and Wales with up to 3 years’ post-qualification experience in family law; applications from newly qualified solicitors with relevant training contract or paralegal experience will be considered.

• Practical experience of private family matters, including divorce, financial remedy and private children work; experience of domestic abuse and cohabitation matters is advantageous.

• Strong legal research, drafting and analytical skills with excellent attention to detail.

• Compassionate and client-focused approach, with the ability to communicate clearly and sensitively with clients who may be experiencing challenging or emotional circumstances.

• Good understanding of the Family Procedure Rules, relevant family legislation and court processes, or the ability to develop this knowledge quickly.

• Organised and able to manage a caseload, prioritise competing deadlines and progress matters efficiently with appropriate supervision and support.

• Collaborative and proactive approach, with the ability to work independently while seeking guidance appropriately and contributing positively to the wider team.