Aviation and International Injury Associate (1-5 PQE)

A highly regarded London practice is seeking an Associate (1–5 years’ PQE) to join its renowned Aviation & International Injury team. This is an exceptional opportunity to work alongside market-leading partners on complex, high-value, and often high-profile litigation with an international dimension.

The Opportunity

The successful candidate will have experience in serious or catastrophic personal injury and fatal accident claims, ideally from a claimant background. Exposure to international elements (jurisdiction or applicable law) and/or aviation claims is advantageous but not essential. Candidates with strong defendant experience, or those whose work has focused on complex domestic serious injury claims, are also encouraged to apply.

About the Team

This team is widely recognised for its premier reputation in aviation and international injury work. It acts for individuals who have suffered life-changing injuries abroad, foreign nationals injured in the UK, and victims (or their families) of aviation accidents worldwide. The group consistently features in the top legal directories, and team members hold leading accreditations in complex injury and accidents abroad. Joining this department offers a rare chance to learn from and work with some of the most respected practitioners in the field.

Key Responsibilities

Casework & Client Management

• Taking initial client instructions, assessing suitability, and conducting preliminary research

• Maintaining regular communication with clients and stakeholders throughout the litigation process

• Advising clients on fees, case strategy, and procedural developments

• Preparing reports, statements, advice letters, pleadings, and disclosure

• Instructing experts and Counsel

• Managing litigation, including attendance at procedural hearings

• Engaging in ADR where appropriate

• Working with the in-house costs team on budgeting, estimates, and maximising recovery

Technical Skills

• Strong knowledge base relevant to serious/catastrophic injury, international law issues, or aviation claims

• High-level interpersonal skills, particularly when supporting seriously injured clients and their families

Supervision & Teamwork

• Working under the supervision of senior lawyers while proactively seeking clarification and feedback

• Delegating work to trainees and paralegals with clear instructions and oversight

• Contributing to a collaborative team environment

• Providing guidance, mentoring and constructive feedback

Financial Management

• Accurate time recording and achievement of billing targets

• Monitoring WIP and financial performance

• Supporting the budgeting process and managing profitability on matters

Business Development

• Demonstrating commercial awareness and contributing to the team’s strategic growth

• Building and maintaining strong client relationships

• Participating in networking, events, marketing, and pitch activity

• Contributing to articles, thought leadership and, where appropriate, public speaking

• Developing a personal profile within the sector

Knowledge Sharing

• Making use of internal knowledge resources

• Participating in know-how sessions and delivering internal training

Candidate Profile

Essential:

• 2:1 law degree or equivalent (or a non-law degree plus a relevant postgraduate conversion), with at least a commendation in the LPC/BVC (or equivalent)

Desirable:

• Additional languages

• LLM in Private International Law or Aviation Law

• Technical or scientific background

• Piloting or aviation operational experience

Attributes:

• Excellent communication skills; mature, empathetic and professional

• Strong judgment, practical problem-solving and decision-making ability

• Tech-positive mindset, including the use of AI to enhance service delivery

• Team-focused, enthusiastic and committed

• High attention to detail and alignment with a supportive, high-performing culture