Job Title: Junior / Newly Qualified Solicitor or CILEX Lawyer (Litigation Practice Rights) - Landlord & Tenant Litigation
Location: Uckfield, East Sussex
Job Type: Permanent, Full-Time (Office-Based)
Salary: Competitive, dependent on qualifications and experience, with salary review upon successful completion of probation
Our Client
Our client is a well-established legal practice specialising in landlord and tenant litigation. They act for a diverse range of clients, including private landlords, managing agents, and insurance companies, providing expert advice and representation across a variety of property disputes and possession proceedings.
The Role
Due to continued growth, our client is seeking a Junior or Newly Qualified Solicitor, or a CILEX Lawyer with litigation practice rights, to join their busy Landlord & Tenant Litigation Department.
This is an excellent opportunity for an ambitious legal professional looking to develop their litigation career within a supportive and specialist environment. Working alongside experienced fee earners and under the supervision of a senior solicitor, you will gain exposure to a wide range of possession proceedings, defended matters, and landlord and tenant disputes.
Key Responsibilities
You will be responsible for a varied caseload and support the wider litigation team with duties including:
- Undertaking fee-earning work under supervision and contributing to the department's workload
- Assisting with defended and complex landlord and tenant litigation matters, including Fast Track and Multi-Track cases
- Drafting legal documents and ensuring compliance with court directions and orders
- Progressing towards managing smaller matters independently while supporting on larger cases
- Corresponding with clients, defendants, courts, solicitors, advocates, counsel, and managing agents
- Keeping clients informed and updated throughout the litigation process
- Issuing possession claims through the Possession Claims Online system
- Preparing court applications, including manual possession claims, accelerated possession proceedings, and warrant applications
- Drafting notices seeking possession
- Preparing instructions for advocates and counsel
- Maintaining accurate case records and updating case management spreadsheets
- Supporting the department in delivering a high standard of client service
Requirements
- Qualified Solicitor (Junior/NQ) or CILEX Lawyer with litigation practice rights
- Good understanding of landlord and tenant law (training can be provided for candidates without direct landlord and tenant experience)
- Basic knowledge of the Civil Procedure Rules and litigation procedures
- Strong IT skills and confidence using case management systems
- Excellent organisational skills and ability to manage competing priorities
- Strong attention to detail and accuracy
- Confident communicator with the ability to build relationships with clients and third parties
- Able to work independently and as part of a small, collaborative team
- Comfortable working in a fast-paced environment and meeting deadlines
- Professional, adaptable, and committed to maintaining confidentiality
- Eager to learn and develop specialist legal expertise
Benefits
- Competitive salary with review following successful completion of probation
- Specialist training and ongoing professional development
- Opportunity to develop expertise within a niche area of litigation
- Supportive and collaborative working environment
- Clear progression opportunities within the department
- 20 days annual leave plus bank holidays
Working Hours
- Monday to Friday, 9:00am - 5:30pm
- One-hour lunch break
- Full-time, office-based role in Uckfield, East Sussex
- 9-month probation period
