Partner/ Head of Department

Our client, an award-winning, multidisciplinary law firm with a long-standing reputation for excellence is seeking an exceptional senior family lawyer to join at Partner / Equity Partner level and lead its highly regarded Family Department.

Recognised as a top-tier firm by the leading legal directories, the firm acts for medium-sized businesses, NGOs, public figures and private individuals across a broad range of specialist practice areas.

This is a strategic leadership appointment and an opportunity to build on an established and successful platform, further strengthening the department’s reputation for outstanding client service and technical excellence.

The Opportunity

The successful candidate will assume responsibility for leading and developing a well-respected mixed family practice. You will play a central role in shaping the department’s future direction, driving sustainable growth, and maintaining the highest standards of client care.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead, manage and develop the Family Department, fostering a collaborative and inclusive culture.

• Drive the department’s strategic growth, strengthening its referral network and market profile.

• Maintain and develop a high-quality caseload across a broad spectrum of private family law matters.

• Oversee financial performance, including billing, supervision and matter management.

• Mentor and develop junior lawyers within the team.

Candidate Profile

The firm is seeking a senior family lawyer who can demonstrate:

• A minimum of 10 years’ post-qualification experience.

• Strong experience across mixed private family law, including:

  • Private children proceedings

  • Divorce and financial remedy work

  • International family matters

  • Adoption and child abduction cases

• While legal aid experience is not essential, familiarity with legal aid work within a mixed practice would be advantageous.

• Excellent technical ability and sound commercial judgement.

• A proven track record of leadership and effective team management.

• Demonstrable success in business development and practice growth.

• Strong negotiation skills and the ability to manage complex, sensitive matters with confidence and discretion.

Membership of relevant professional bodies within family law is desirable.

Equal Opportunities

The firm is committed to fostering diversity and inclusion within both the organisation and the wider legal profession. Applications from candidates from under-represented backgrounds are particularly encouraged.