Head of Family Law

Location: Sale, Greater Manchester (with some travel to other local offices)

Salary: £80,000 to £110,000 (depending on experience)

Experience: Senior Family Solicitor (significant PQE) with leadership experience

Our client, a well-established full-service law firm, is looking to appoint a Head of Family to lead, grow and strategically develop its Family Department.

This is a senior leadership role with the opportunity to shape the direction of a high-performing team. The role will require presence across multiple offices in Greater Manchester and Cheshire, with agile working available.

What You’ll Be Doing

• Providing leadership and technical oversight across the full range of family matters, including divorce, financial remedy, private children work, domestic abuse and complex high-net-worth cases

• Managing a complex caseload while setting the standard for client care, communication and quality of advice

• Leading, inspiring and developing the team, creating a culture of collaboration, accountability and continuous improvement

• Setting and delivering the department strategy, including growth, profitability and market presence

• Driving performance and matter management across the team, including financial performance against the department plan

• Building and maintaining strong relationships with clients, referrers and external partners

• Leading business development and profile-raising activity, including networking and events

• Keeping up to date with legal, regulatory and market developments and using insights to improve service delivery and risk management

• Improving processes, workflows and internal resources (including precedents, templates and case management tools)

What We’re Looking For

• Qualified Solicitor (England & Wales) with extensive experience in Family law

• Proven leadership experience, with a track record of managing and developing high-performing teams

• Strong client-care skills and the ability to support clients through emotionally challenging situations with empathy and professionalism

• Commercial awareness and the ability to shape and deliver a strategy for department growth

• Confident communicator with strong drafting skills and presence with clients, colleagues and external stakeholders

What’s On Offer

• 30 days’ annual leave plus bank holidays

• Birthday holiday (paid day off)

• Additional annual leave for service milestones (3, 5 and 10 years)

• Competitive pension scheme

• Income protection

• Life assurance

• Cycle to work scheme

• Healthcare cash plan

• Private medical insurance

• Hybrid working

• Electric vehicle salary sacrifice scheme

• Flexible benefits portal (including options to buy and sell annual leave and access to additional benefits)

Location & Working Arrangements

• Sale, Greater Manchester with some travel to other local offices. 

• Hybrid working available

• Full-time preferred

Next Steps

Apply online or send your CV to  lee.hawthorne-finch@h-fts.com  or call 0333 996 2882 for more information.

All applications will be handled in strict confidence.

Private Client Solicitor

Location: Sale, Greater Manchester

Salary: £38,000 to £50,000 (depending on experience)

Experience: NQ to 2 years’ PQE (Private Client)

Our client, a well-established, people-centred law firm in the North West, is looking to appoint a Private Client Solicitor (NQ to 2 PQE) into its growing team in Sale.

This is an excellent opportunity for a newly qualified or early-career solicitor who wants a broad private client caseload, strong technical development, and the support of a collaborative team that values high-quality client care.

What You’ll Be Doing

• Managing a varied private client caseload, including Wills, Probate, Lasting Powers of Attorney, and estate administration

• Drafting and reviewing key documents (including wills, LPAs and related private client documentation)

• Advising clients with empathy and clarity, maintaining high standards of service throughout

• Supporting on probate and estate administration matters from start to finish

• Advising on tax planning and inheritance tax considerations where appropriate

• Building and maintaining long-term client relationships

• Keeping up to date with changes in private client law and best practice

• Supporting business development and networking activity as you grow in the role

What We’re Looking For

• Qualified Solicitor (England & Wales), NQ to 2 years’ PQE

• Experience gained within a Private Client team (including during training)

• Strong drafting skills and excellent attention to detail

• Confident communicator with a professional, client-focused approach

• Well organised, able to plan and prioritise a busy caseload

• STEP or SFE accreditation is desirable (but not essential)

What’s On Offer

• Hybrid working with flexibility

• Annual bonus scheme (role and performance dependent)

• Supportive, collaborative team environment with strong leadership

• Excellent exposure to a broad private client caseload

• Clear development and progression opportunities within a high-performing department

• Comprehensive benefits package (details available on request)

Location & Working Arrangements

• Sale, Greater Manchester

• Hybrid working available

• Full-time preferred

Next Steps

Apply online or send your CV to  lee.hawthorne-finch@h-fts.com  or call 0333 996 2882 for more information.

All applications will be handled in strict confidence.

Private Client Lawyer (3+ PQE)

Location: Huddersfield (with travel to Halifax & Brighouse)

Salary: Up to £45,000 DOE | Career Progression & Comprehensive Benefits

Advance Your Private Client Career with a Prestigious West Yorkshire Firm

Are you ready to join a respected legal practice with over 130 years of heritage and a genuine commitment to professional growth? This is your opportunity to manage a varied private client caseload, develop your expertise, and work closely with a highly experienced team in a firm that values meaningful client relationships and career progression.

About the Role

Our client is seeking an accomplished Private Client Lawyer to join their Huddersfield office. You will handle a broad range of wills, probate, trusts, and estate matters, working both independently and as part of a supportive team.

Key Responsibilities

• Manage a diverse caseload of wills, powers of attorney, trusts, and probate matters from instruction to completion

• Draft wills and prepare lasting powers of attorney

• Oversee estate administration with meticulous attention to detail

• Conduct home visits and build strong client relationships

• Collaborate with colleagues to deliver exceptional client care

What We’re Looking For

• Qualified Solicitor (England & Wales) with 3+ years’ PQE in wills & probate

• STEP qualification or working towards (preferred)

• Member of the Association of Lifetime Lawyers (preferred)

• Strong client care skills and willingness to conduct home visits

• Demonstrable enthusiasm for private client work

• Ability to handle complex matters and grow responsibility

Benefits & Working Environment

• Competitive salary up to £45,000 DOE

• Holiday entitlement above statutory minimum (increases with service)

• Comprehensive ongoing training and qualification support

• Regular social events across all offices

• Career progression opportunities in a nurturing environment

• Supportive, knowledgeable team and professional network

Career Progression

Benefit from structured development and regular feedback, with the potential to progress into senior roles as you grow your expertise.

Location & Working Arrangements

Based in Huddersfield, with travel to Halifax and Brighouse as required. Hybrid working and flexible arrangements may be available to support work-life balance.

How to Apply

Ready to take the next step in your private client career? Contact Lee in confidence at lee.hawthorne-finch@h-fts.com or 0333 996 2882 for more information or to apply.

All applications are handled with strict confidentiality by Hawthorne-Finch Talent Solutions. Our client’s details remain confidential until interview stage.

Private Client Lawyer (3+ PQE)

Location: Huddersfield (with hybrid working options)

Salary: £40,000–£52,000 DOE | Career Progression & Comprehensive Benefits

Build Your Future with a Leading Regional Law Firm

Are you an experienced Private Client Lawyer seeking a new challenge in a respected, supportive law firm? This is your opportunity to handle a broad and interesting caseload, work with a collaborative team, and progress your career in an environment dedicated to your professional growth.

About the Role

Our client is looking for a talented Private Client Lawyer to join their established Huddersfield team. You’ll be responsible for a diverse range of wills, probate, trusts, and estate administration matters, providing expert advice and maintaining the highest standards of client care.

Key Responsibilities

• Manage a varied caseload of wills, probate, trusts, estate administration, and powers of attorney

• Advise clients on inheritance tax, estate planning, and trust creation

• Draft legal documents and conduct both in-person and remote client meetings

• Ensure exceptional client service and uphold professional standards

• Contribute to the ongoing success and reputation of the team

What We’re Looking For

• Qualified Solicitor, Legal Executive, or STEP-qualified practitioner

• Minimum 3 years’ post-qualification experience (PQE) in private client law (UK practice essential)

• Strong technical expertise in wills, probate, trusts, and estate administration

• STEP qualification or working towards (preferred)

• Excellent communication, organisation, and IT skills

• Empathetic, client-focused approach and commitment to excellence

Benefits & Working Environment

• Competitive salary (£40,000–£52,000 DOE)

• Hybrid working and flexible arrangements available

• Comprehensive benefits package including pension, private medical insurance, and professional subscriptions

• Regular training, mentoring, and clear career progression pathway

• Supportive, social team culture

• Opportunities for advancement into senior roles

Career Progression

Benefit from structured professional development, regular feedback, and the opportunity to progress into Senior Associate or Team Leader positions.

Location & Working Arrangements

Based in Huddersfield, with flexible hybrid working options to support work-life balance.

How to Apply

Ready to take your private client career to the next level? Contact Lee in confidence at lee.hawthorne-finch@h-fts.com or 0333 996 2882 for more information or to apply.

All applications are handled with strict confidentiality by Hawthorne-Finch Talent Solutions. Our client’s details remain confidential until interview stage.

Private Client Lawyer (3+ PQE)

Location: Halifax (with hybrid working options)

Salary: £40,000–£52,000 DOE | Career Progression & Comprehensive Benefits

Advance Your Career in Private Client Law

Are you a skilled Private Client Lawyer looking to join a well-established, supportive regional law firm? This is your opportunity to manage an interesting and varied caseload, work alongside experienced colleagues, and develop your expertise in a collaborative environment that values your growth and wellbeing.

About the Role

Our client is seeking an experienced Private Client Lawyer to join their respected team in Halifax. You’ll handle a broad range of wills, probate, trusts, and estate administration matters, providing expert advice and outstanding service to clients.

Key Responsibilities

• Manage a diverse caseload of wills, probate, trusts, estate administration, and powers of attorney

• Advise clients on inheritance tax, estate planning, and trust creation

• Draft legal documents and conduct in-person and remote client meetings

• Deliver exceptional client care and maintain high professional standards

• Contribute to the team’s growth and reputation

What We’re Looking For

• Qualified Solicitor, Legal Executive, or STEP-qualified practitioner

• Minimum 3 years’ post-qualification experience (PQE) in private client law (UK practice essential)

• Strong technical expertise in wills, probate, trusts, and estate administration

• STEP qualification or working towards (preferred)

• Excellent communication, organisation, and IT skills

• Empathetic, client-focused approach and commitment to high standards

Benefits & Working Environment

• Competitive salary (£40,000–£52,000 DOE)

• Hybrid working and flexible arrangements available

• Comprehensive benefits package including pension, private medical insurance, and professional subscriptions

• Regular training, mentoring, and clear career progression pathway

• Supportive, social team culture

• Opportunities for advancement into senior roles

Career Progression

Enjoy structured development, regular feedback, and the chance to progress to Senior Associate or Team Leader positions.

Location & Working Arrangements

Based in Halifax, with hybrid working options to support work-life balance.

How to Apply

Ready to take your private client career to the next level? Contact Lee in confidence at lee.hawthorne-finch@h-fts.com or 0333 996 2882 for more information or to apply.

All applications are handled with strict confidentiality by Hawthorne-Finch Talent Solutions. Our client’s details remain confidential until interview stage.

Wills and Probate Practitioner (3+ PQE)

Location: Halifax (with flexibility for hybrid working) 

Salary: £38,000–£48,000 DOE | Career Progression & Comprehensive Benefits

Make Your Mark in Private Client Law

Looking to build your career in a supportive, established law firm with a strong regional reputation? This is a prime opportunity to join a friendly, expert team and manage a broad spectrum of wills, probate, and estate matters while developing your technical expertise and progressing towards seniority.

About the Role

Our client is seeking an experienced Wills and Probate Practitioner to join their Private Client department in Halifax. You’ll take ownership of a diverse caseload, provide expert advice to clients, and play a key role in the department’s continued growth.

Key Responsibilities

• Manage a full caseload of wills, probate, estate administration, and trusts matters from start to finish

• Draft wills and lasting powers of attorney

• Advise on inheritance tax planning and trust creation

• Conduct client meetings in person and remotely

• Ensure exceptional client care at all stages

What We’re Looking For

• Qualified Solicitor, Legal Executive, or STEP-qualified practitioner

• Minimum 3 years’ post-qualification experience (PQE) in wills and probate (UK practice essential)

• Strong technical knowledge of probate, trusts, and estate administration

• STEP qualification or working towards (preferred)

• Excellent communication, organisation, and IT skills

• Empathetic, client-focused approach

Benefits & Working Environment

• Competitive salary (£38,000–£48,000 DOE)

• Hybrid working/flexible arrangements available

• Comprehensive benefits package including pension, private medical insurance, and professional subscriptions

• Regular training, mentoring, and clear career progression pathway

• Supportive team culture with social events

• Opportunities for advancement into senior roles

Career Progression

Benefit from structured development and regular feedback, with the potential to progress to Senior Associate or Team Leader roles.

Location & Working Arrangements

Based in Halifax, with flexibility for hybrid working to support work-life balance.

How to Apply

Ready to advance your private client career in a respected regional firm? Contact Lee in confidence at lee.hawthorne-finch@h-fts.com or 0333 996 2882 for more information or to apply.

All applications are handled with strict confidentiality by Hawthorne-Finch Talent Solutions. Our client’s details remain confidential until interview stage.

Conveyancing Assistant – Huddersfield

Salary: £24,000 - £30,000 

Location: Huddersfield 

Experience Level: Must be able to work independantly 

Work Independently with 130+ Years of Heritage

Join a Trusted West Yorkshire Law Firm with Over 130 Years of Heritage

Are you an experienced Conveyancing Assistant ready to take the next step in your career? Our client, a highly respected full-service law firm with over 130 years of heritage serving the Calderdale and Kirklees communities, is seeking a skilled and independent Conveyancing Assistant to join their busy conveyancing team in Huddersfield.

This is an excellent opportunity to work with a firm that has been a cornerstone of the local community since 1886, supporting individuals, families, and businesses with a pragmatic approach and value-for-money ethos. The firm prides itself on its purpose and values, providing trusted legal expertise across Halifax, Huddersfield, and Brighouse.

If you're looking for a role where you can work independently, manage your own caseload, and develop your conveyancing career with a well-established and respected firm, this could be the perfect opportunity for you.

The Firm

Our client is a well-established, full-service law firm with over 100 years of heritage, serving communities from offices in Halifax, Huddersfield, and Brighouse. The firm is a trusted legal partner, supporting individuals, families, and businesses with a wide range of legal services.

The firm is known for its pragmatic approach, value-for-money ethos, and commitment to providing high-quality legal services. With a strong reputation in the local community, the firm offers a supportive and collaborative working environment where employees are valued and encouraged to develop their careers.

The firm's conveyancing team is busy and well-regarded, handling a diverse range of residential and commercial property transactions for clients across West Yorkshire and beyond. The team is supported by experienced solicitors and benefits from modern case management systems and technology.

The firm holds a number of accreditations including:

• Conveyancing Quality Scheme

• Family Law Advanced

• Children Law Accredited

• Family Mediation Council

• Yorkshire Chamber of Commerce member

The Role

As a Conveyancing Assistant, you will play a vital role in supporting the firm's busy conveyancing team in Huddersfield. The key requirement for this role is that you must be experienced enough to work independently, managing your own caseload with minimal supervision.

You will be handling a diverse range of residential conveyancing matters from instruction through to completion, providing excellent client service and ensuring transactions progress smoothly and efficiently.

Your key responsibilities will include:

Conveyancing Work:

• Managing your own caseload of residential conveyancing matters independently

• Handling sales, purchases, remortgages, and transfers of equity

• Dealing with freehold and leasehold transactions

• Progressing matters from instruction through to completion

• Liaising with clients, estate agents, mortgage lenders, and other solicitors

• Conducting property searches and reviewing search results

• Preparing and reviewing contracts and transfer deeds

• Dealing with Stamp Duty Land Tax returns and Land Registry applications

• Managing post-completion formalities including registration

Client Service:

• Providing excellent client service and maintaining regular communication

• Keeping clients updated on progress throughout the transaction

• Responding to client queries promptly and professionally

• Managing client expectations and explaining legal processes clearly

• Building and maintaining positive client relationships

Case Management:

• Using the firm's case management system effectively

• Maintaining accurate and up-to-date file records

• Managing deadlines and ensuring timely progression of matters

• Prioritising workload and managing multiple transactions simultaneously

• Ensuring compliance with SRA requirements and firm procedures

Administrative Duties:

• Drafting correspondence and legal documents

• Preparing completion statements and financial calculations

• Managing file openings and closings

• Ensuring accurate billing and financial records

• Maintaining organised and compliant files

About You

Essential Requirements:

• Minimum 2+ years' experience in residential conveyancing (essential)

• Proven ability to work independently and manage own caseload (essential)

• Strong technical knowledge of residential conveyancing processes and procedures

• Experience handling freehold and leasehold transactions

• Experience with sales, purchases, remortgages, and transfers of equity

• Knowledge of property searches and Land Registry procedures

• Understanding of Stamp Duty Land Tax requirements

• Experience using case management systems

• Excellent client care skills with ability to build and maintain relationships

• Strong organisational skills and ability to manage multiple matters simultaneously

• Excellent attention to detail and accuracy

• Strong written and verbal communication skills

• Ability to work under pressure and meet deadlines

• Proactive and self-motivated approach to work

• Team player who works well in a collaborative environment

• Committed to delivering excellent client service

• Understanding of SRA requirements and compliance

Desirable:

• Experience with new build transactions

• Experience with Help to Buy schemes

• Experience with shared ownership transactions

• Knowledge of commercial property transactions

• Experience working in a full-service law firm environment

• Familiarity with local West Yorkshire property market

Key Attributes:

• Independent and self-sufficient with strong work ethic

• Client-focused with commitment to exceptional service delivery

• Highly organised with excellent time management skills

• Commercially aware and pragmatic approach to problem-solving

• Strong team player who thrives in a collaborative environment

• Adaptable and flexible approach to work

• Professional and personable manner

• Resilient and able to work under pressure

• Passionate about conveyancing and property law

What's On Offer

Our client is committed to recognising and rewarding great work, with a competitive salary and benefits package.

Benefits include:

• Competitive salary: £24,000 - £30,000 (dependent on experience)

• Trusted legal expertise – cornerstone of Calderdale and Kirklees communities

• Conveyancing Quality Scheme accredited

• Holiday entitlement that exceeds statutory minimum (increases with length of service)

• Enhanced sick pay scheme (increases with length of service)

• Comprehensive ongoing training and development opportunities

• Career progression opportunities in a supportive environment

• Supportive and collaborative working environment

• Modern case management systems and technology

• Work for a firm with strong local reputation and client base

• Purpose-driven firm with strong values

• Accredited firm (Conveyancing Quality, Family Law, Children Law, Family Mediation)

• Member of Yorkshire Chamber of Commerce

• Opportunity to develop broad conveyancing expertise

• Stable and established firm with long-term career prospects

Location

This role is based in the firm's Huddersfield office, located at:

The office is located in the heart of Huddersfield town centre with excellent transport links, close to Huddersfield train station, and easy access to local amenities, shops, restaurants, and cultural attractions. The office is well-served by public transport and has parking available nearby.

How to Apply

If you're an experienced Conveyancing Assistant with the ability to work independently and manage your own caseload, and you're looking to develop your career with a trusted West Yorkshire law firm with over 130 years of heritage, we'd love to hear from you.

Contact Lee Hawthorne-Finch: lee.hawthorne-finch@h-fts.com Phone: 0333 996 2882

Insolvency Associate

Salary: £55,000 - £75,000 + Bonus

Location: Manchester (hybrid/flexible working)

Experience: 4+ Years PQE

Join a Leading City Firm's Expanding Insolvency Practice

Are you an ambitious insolvency lawyer looking to join a City-led international firm with a thriving Manchester practice? Our client is seeking an experienced Insolvency Associate with transactional, advisory and contentious restructuring experience to join their cross-office Insolvency team. This is your opportunity to work on high-quality restructuring and insolvency matters whilst developing your technical expertise, client management and profile-raising skills in a collaborative, supportive environment.

About the Role

As an Insolvency Associate, you'll join the Manchester team and work with the cross-office Insolvency team, supporting both non-contentious restructuring and insolvency litigation work. You'll be encouraged to think beyond the law and into the commercial, whilst being empowered to take ownership over your marketing efforts and build your professional profile.

You'll be well supported at partner level and by other fee-earners not just in your immediate team but throughout the whole department, working collaboratively to deliver the best solutions for clients.

Your Responsibilities Will Include:

• Advisory Work: Advising office holders, directors, lenders and other stakeholders on restructuring and insolvency issues

• Distressed Transactions: Acting for office holders and buyers on distressed business and asset sales

• Insolvency Litigation: Undertaking insolvency litigation including breach of duty, transactions at undervalue and other claims

• Caseload Management: Handling own caseload (subject to supervision) and managing files efficiently and cost-effectively

• Complex Matters: Assisting partners and senior lawyers with more substantial matters including distressed transactions and insolvency litigation

• Client Relationship Management: Building and maintaining effective client relationships, particularly with referrers of work such as national accountancy and insolvency practitioners

• Business Development: Participating in marketing initiatives, including client training days, seminars, contributions to the quarterly insolvency newsletter and other business development activities

• Compliance: Ensuring files are managed in compliance with Lexcel procedures

• Professional Development: Participating in firm-wide and departmental training sessions

• Target Management: Meeting agreed targets and managing time and billing efficiently

This role offers genuine variety across both contentious and non-contentious restructuring and insolvency matters, with excellent opportunities for career development and client-facing work.

About You

Essential Requirements:

• Qualified solicitor with at least 4 years' post-qualification experience

• Contentious and/or non-contentious experience in a broad range of insolvency and restructuring matters

• Proven ability to take on responsibility and manage files independently where appropriate

• Strong client focus and commitment to service delivery

• Excellent technical knowledge across restructuring and insolvency law

• Drive and enthusiasm with a genuine passion for the practice area

• Flexibility and a can-do attitude

• Strong commercial mindset with the ability to provide pragmatic solutions

• Excellent communication and relationship-building skills

Desirable Attributes:

• Experience advising office holders, directors and lenders on complex restructuring matters

• Track record in distressed business and asset sales

• Insolvency litigation experience including breach of duty and undervalue transaction claims

• Established relationships with national accountancy and insolvency practitioners

• Demonstrable business development success or client following

• Experience contributing to marketing initiatives and thought leadership

What's On Offer

Competitive Remuneration Package:

• Salary: £55,000 - £75,000 (dependent on experience)

• Performance-related bonus

• Comprehensive benefits package

Career Development:

• Career Development Framework setting out clear competencies and progression pathways

• Excellent support from partners and senior lawyers across the cross-office team

• Opportunity to take ownership over marketing efforts and profile-raising

• Empowerment to bring your ideas, experiences and expertise

• Firm-wide and departmental training sessions

• Collaborative working environment with support throughout the whole department

Professional Environment:

• Work with a City-led international firm with offices across the UK, Middle East and Asia

• Strategic partnership with Interlaw facilitating management of multi-jurisdictional matters

• Leading practices in Corporate, Litigation, Tax, Banking and Finance, Real Estate and Private Wealth

• Commitment to equity, diversity and inclusion

• Strategic direction shaped by ESG principles guiding firm-wide operations

About Our Client

Our client is a City-led, international and national law firm with over 170 partners and 1,000 staff, with offices across the UK, Middle East and Asia. Their global footprint is further enhanced by their strategic partnership with Interlaw which works to facilitate their management of multi-jurisdictional matters.

The firm has leading practices in Corporate, Litigation, Tax, Banking and Finance, Real Estate and Private Wealth, and is committed to delivering excellence whilst prioritising client satisfaction.

The firm has always been proud of its commitment to equity, diversity and inclusion and values the variety of its partnership. They believe it is their people that make them unique, and they expect and respect that you and your talents are too. Their strategic direction is shaped by a desire to grow the business in a way that is responsible and sustainable, with the principles of ESG at its core.

Location & Working Arrangements

This role is based in Manchester, with the opportunity to work with the cross-office Insolvency team across the firm's UK offices. The firm offers modern office facilities with excellent transport links and a collaborative working environment.

How to Apply

If you're an ambitious Insolvency Associate with 4+ years PQE looking to join a leading City firm's expanding Manchester practice, with excellent support and genuine career development opportunities, we'd love to hear from you.

For a confidential discussion about this opportunity, please contact: Lee Hawthorne-Finch lee.hawthorne-finch@h-fts.com 0333 996 2882

Please submit your CV in confidence. All applications will be treated with the utmost discretion.

Hawthorne-Finch Talent Solutions is committed to ethical recruitment practices. We value transparency, integrity, and building trusted partnerships. All candidate information is treated confidentially, and we never share your details without your explicit consent.