Associate Solicitor- Court of Protection

Overview
Our client, a leading UK and international law firm, delivers high-quality legal advice tailored to both businesses and individuals. With offices across the UK and a growing global presence, their dedicated team focuses on addressing the unique objectives of each client through a combination of flair, technical expertise, and a strong team ethic.

The Court of Protection (COP) Team, within the firm, has earned a significant reputation for guiding individuals, families, carers, trustees, beneficiaries, and other professionals through a diverse range of issues stemming from catastrophic personal injuries. This includes cases of serious brain injury with high-value compensation awards. The team collaborates closely with the Court of Protection, individuals, and their families, aiming to establish long-term relationships and ensure decisions are made in the best interests of the clients.

Responsibilities:
Our client is ideally seeking a qualified solicitor with 2-5 years of post-qualification experience in Court of Protection work to join and enhance their successful team. The successful candidate will be responsible for the day-to-day general management of clients’ affairs, often serving as the primary point of contact. Key responsibilities include:

• Managing a caseload of clients with the support of senior team members and a paralegal.
• Drafting routine and non-routine applications to the Court of Protection, accompanied by relevant documentation, including Witness Statements.
• Supporting the preparation of Expert Witness Statements.
• Assisting in the preparation of Office of the Public Guardian (OPG) Reports.
• Collaborating with Case Managers, clients, and their families.
• Taking an active role in the implementation of policies and processes related to the team.
• Mentoring and training junior staff, delegating tasks as appropriate.
• Liaising and consulting with senior team members as needed on team policies and general management of client matters.

Essential & Desirable Criteria

• 2-5 years PQE with experience in Court of Protection.
• Degree qualification or equivalent.
• Competence in running own caseload with supervision.
• Part or whole STEP examinations.
• Good working knowledge of OPG deputy standards.
• Excellent oral and written communication skills.
• IT literate, confident user of MS Office, and potentially legal systems.
• Ability to work to deadlines, manage a busy workload, and report on progress.
• Collaborative team member with the ability to build relationships quickly.
• Interest and enthusiasm for Business Development, including social media channels.

Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion
Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion are integral to our clients values. They actively encourage a diverse workforce and welcome applications from individuals of all backgrounds. Their commitment extends to promoting an inclusive culture where everyone can be their authentic selves.

We ensure equal opportunities and fair treatment for all job applicants and employees, irrespective of age, gender reassignment, marriage or civil partnership, pregnancy and maternity, disability, race, religion or belief, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, and social background. Adjustments are provided for individuals with disabilities, long-term health conditions, including mental health, or neurodiversity.