Solicitor (1-5 years' PQE) – Family Law

Blackadders

Edinburgh

Manager: ​Partner, Family
Department:​ Family Law  
Location: ​Edinburgh

ROLE OVERVIEW:

We are seeking to employee a Solicitor (1-5 years’ PQE) within our Family Law team. This is a newly created position which will play an essential role in providing legal advice, representation, and support to clients dealing with family-related issues. This role requires an understanding of Scottish family law, good communication skills, and the ability to handle sensitive situations with professionalism and empathy.

The role will work both independently and on cases with others in the Team. The ability to prioritise and meet challenging deadlines is key to the role as is attention to detail and having strong interpersonal skills.

KEY DUTIES:

• Client Consultations: Conduct initial consultations with clients to understand their legal issues, provide legal advice, and outline potential courses of action.
• Case Management: Manage a varied caseload, ensuring that all cases are handled efficiently, accurately, and in line with legal requirements and best practices.
• Legal Representation: Represent clients in court proceedings, including preparing necessary documentation, presenting cases, and negotiating settlements.
• Documentation: Draft legal documents such as agreements, court applications, and correspondence. Ensure all documentation is thorough and compliant with relevant laws and regulations.
• Research: Conduct comprehensive legal research to stay current with changes in family law and to support case preparation.
• Client Advocacy: Advocate for clients’ rights and interests, ensuring they are fully informed of their options and the potential outcomes of their cases.
• Collaboration: Work closely with colleagues, including barristers, legal assistants, and administrative staff, to provide a cohesive and supportive service to clients.
• Confidentiality: Maintain the highest levels of confidentiality and discretion in all client interactions and case handling.
• Compliance: Ensure all actions and advice are in line with the Law Society of Scotland’s guidelines and adhere to professional and ethical standards.

KEY SKILLS & COMPETENCIES:

• Knowledge: Knowledge of Scottish family law, including divorce, child custody, adoption, domestic abuse, and financial settlements.
• Communication Skills: Excellent verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to explain legal issues in a clear and accessible manner.
• Interpersonal Skills: Strong interpersonal skills, with the ability to build rapport with clients and work effectively within a team.
• Analytical Skills: Good analytical and problem-solving skills, with a keen attention to detail.
• Organisational Skills: Strong organizational and time management skills, with the ability to manage multiple cases simultaneously and meet deadlines.
• Empathy and Sensitivity: A compassionate approach, with the ability to handle emotionally charged situations with sensitivity and professionalism.
• Resilience: The ability to remain calm and composed under pressure, and to adapt to changing circumstances.
• IT Proficiency: Proficiency in using legal software and general office applications and ability to learn to use new software (e.g., ALB, Katchr and Microsoft Office 365).

ESSENTIAL QUALIFICTAIONS & EXPERIENCE

• Law Degree: A degree in law (LLB or equivalent)
• Professional Qualification: Completion of the Diploma in Professional Legal Practice and admission to the Solicitors Roll in Scotland.
• Experience: 1-5 years of experience specialising in family law

BENEFITS:

• Private medical insurance.
• Medicash health plan.
• Employee assistance programme.
• 31 days holiday plus 4 bank holidays.
• Hybrid working of 3 days in the office per week.
• Early birthday finish.
• Buy/sell and carryover holidays up to 5 days per year.
• Death in service benefit of 4x salary.
• 4% matched pension contribution.
• Enhanced paid leave.
• Career development support.
• Discounted legal fees.
• One day paid volunteering per year.

ABOUT US:

• A top-ranked Scottish law firm.
     Chambers UK Top Ranked
     Legal 500 Leading Firm
     UK200Group
     Legus International Network
• Future growth ambition.

RECRUITMENT PROCESS:

If you are a passionate and dedicated Family Solicitor looking for the next step in your career, please send your CV to recruitment@blackadders.co.uk.