Domestic Abuse Solicitor (NQ–2 PQE)

Salary: £35,000–£50,000

Location: Watford

Legal Aid + Advocacy Exposure

The Role (What you’ll be doing)

• Managing a caseload of domestic abuse and related family matters, including urgent/emergency cases
• Preparing and issuing applications including Non-Molestation Orders, Occupation Orders, and related proceedings (e.g., Prohibited Steps Orders)
• Drafting witness statements, court documentation, and bundles to a high standard
• Conducting advocacy at hearings where appropriate (or supporting counsel where required)
• Liaising with courts, police, support agencies and third parties to progress matters efficiently
• Completing Legal Aid applications via CCMS, including emergency applications
• Maintaining excellent file management, time recording, billing compliance and confidentiality at all times

Client Care and Approach

• Take detailed instructions sensitively and professionally
• Work in a trauma-informed way, maintaining strong boundaries and clear communication
• Deliver a consistently high standard of client care under time pressure

Teamwork, Supervision and Department Growth

• Support and guide paralegals by delegating appropriate tasks
• Participate in team meetings, training and case discussions
• Contribute to outreach, community links and wider departmental development

Requirements (What we’re looking for)

• Qualified Solicitor (England & Wales)
• NQ to 2 years’ PQE (or equivalent post-qualification experience)
• UK-based family law experience, including domestic abuse/injunction matters (pre-qualification experience welcomed)
• Working knowledge of Legal Aid Agency processes and CCMS
• Confidence managing a caseload with urgency, sensitivity and strong attention to detail
• Strong drafting skills (statements, applications, bundles) and sound procedural knowledge
• Competence with Microsoft Office and legal case management systems

• Advocacy experience at hearings
• Experience supervising/mentoring paralegals or trainees
• Additional language skills
• Community outreach/public engagement experience

Salary, Location and Working Arrangements

• Salary: £35,000–£50,000 (dependent on experience)
• Location: Watford (details of hybrid/office expectations to be confirmed at shortlist stage)
• Role type: Permanent

Benefits (Beyond hybrid working)

• Structured supervision and support to develop your domestic abuse/injunction expertise
• Advocacy exposure and court experience to build confidence quickly
• Clear progression opportunities within a growing team
• A collaborative environment with a strong focus on quality and client care
• Ongoing training and CPD aligned to Legal Aid and family law developments

Apply / Enquire (Confidential)

• Prepare statutory accounts for sole traders, partnerships and limited companies
• Produce working papers and ensure files are accurate, compliant, and well-presented
• Assist with corporation tax computations and returns (depending on the role split)
• Support with VAT returns and bookkeeping where required
• Liaise with clients to request records, resolve queries, and keep work moving to deadline
• Support and informally mentor junior colleagues, reviewing basic work where appropriate
• Work closely with managers to manage workflow across a varied portfolio

• Previous experience in a UK accountancy practice in an accounts role
• AAT qualified or studying, or ACA/ACCA part-qualified (helpful, not essential)
• Strong attention to detail and a steady, organised approach
• Confident using accounting software and Excel
• Good communication skills and a professional client manner

• Competitive salary (dependent on experience)
• Study support (where applicable)
• Clear progression and development
• Supportive team environment
• Flexible/hybrid working options (role dependent)

For a confidential chat with Diane, please call 

Diane Shaw

📩 d.shaw@h-fts.com

📲 07506740664 

☎️ 03339962882

Corporate Solicitor

Location: Manchester City Centre (hybrid working)

Salary: £78,000 to £95,000 (depending on experience)

Experience: 6 to 8 years PQE (Corporate)

This is a fantastic opportunity for a Corporate Solicitor (6 to 8 PQE) to join an open, transparent Corporate team within a highly regarded commercial law firm in Manchester city centre.

You will play a key role in driving larger transactions, running smaller transactions and supporting a steady stream of advisory, non-transactional work. The team is known for its collaborative approach, pragmatic advice and genuine investment in developing people, including the opportunity to supervise and coach junior colleagues as you progress.

What You’ll Be Doing

• Supporting on larger corporate transactions, taking responsibility for defined workstreams and driving matters forward

• Running smaller transactions with appropriate supervision, managing timelines, deliverables and client expectations

• Advising on a broad range of corporate work, including:

• M&A

• Corporate restructurings

• Investments

• Joint ventures and shareholder agreements

• LLP and partnership agreements

• General company advice

• Some AIM/plc related work

• Drafting, reviewing and negotiating transaction documents and ancillary agreements

• Providing clear, commercial advice and pragmatic solutions to clients

• Supervising, coaching and developing less experienced members of the team

• Building strong internal relationships across the wider firm and contributing to client relationship development

What We’re Looking For

Essential

• Qualified Solicitor with 6 to 8 years’ PQE in corporate law

• Strong experience across corporate transactions, with confidence handling matters with appropriate supervision

• Commercial mindset and the ability to provide pragmatic, client-focused advice

• A collaborative approach and genuine interest in working as part of a team

• Strong drafting skills, attention to detail and clear communication

Desirable

• Experience supervising or mentoring junior colleagues

• Exposure to AIM/plc work

• Interest in business development and building long-term client relationships

What’s On Offer

• Hybrid working policy with flexible arrangements

• 25 days’ annual leave plus bank holidays

• Option to buy up to 5 additional days’ annual leave (salary sacrifice)

• Employer pension contribution of 4%

• Death in service cover (3x annual salary)

• Birthday holiday (paid day off, taken within two weeks of your birthday)

• Employee Assistance Programme (24/7 confidential support for you and household dependents aged 16+)

• Employee healthcare cash plan (salary sacrifice option)

• Cycle2Work scheme

• In-depth induction plan and structured training workshops

About Our Client

Our client is a leading commercial law firm based in Manchester city centre, advising businesses and individuals across the North West and nationally. The firm is known for being commercial, connected and collaborative, with a strong focus on clear communication and long-term client relationships.

Location & Working Arrangements

• Manchester City Centre

• Full-time, permanent role

• Hybrid working supported

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.

Conveyancer/Executive (Residential Property)

Location: Wakefield

Salary: £30,000 to £45,000 (depending on experience)

Experience: 2+ years’ conveyancing experience

This is a great opportunity for an experienced Residential Conveyancer/Executive to join a busy, well-established law firm in Wakefield.

You will manage your own caseload of sale and purchase matters from file opening through to completion, with the autonomy to run files with minimal supervision. The role suits someone who takes pride in first-class client service, works well under pressure, and enjoys building long-term relationships in the local market.

What You’ll Be Doing

• Managing a busy caseload of residential conveyancing matters from instruction through to completion and archiving

• Handling freehold and leasehold sales and purchases, including drafting and reviewing key documents

• Taking instructions from clients, advising clearly, and progressing matters proactively

• Preparing and maintaining file documentation in line with office procedures

• Billing files and ensuring monies due are requested and received in line with accounts procedures

• Liaising with clients, agents, lenders and other solicitors throughout the transaction

• Supporting delegated supervisory responsibilities when required

• Maintaining strong technical knowledge and keeping up to date with relevant standards and compliance

What We’re Looking For

Essential

• 2+ years’ experience in a similar residential conveyancing role

• Strong technical knowledge across freehold and leasehold conveyancing

• Ability to run files with minimal supervision and manage deadlines effectively

• Confident communicator, able to explain complex issues in a clear, client-friendly way

• Strong written English and professional telephone manner

• Literate and numerate, with strong attention to detail

• Good organisation skills, able to prioritise workload and work well under pressure

• Good IT skills, including confidence with Microsoft Word and Excel

• Team-focused, with the ability to work on your own initiative

Desirable

• Experience supporting or supervising junior colleagues

• Interest in business development and building a local client base

What’s On Offer

• Competitive salary (depending on experience)

• 25 days’ holiday plus bank holidays

• Company pension

• Supportive team environment with autonomy to run your own caseload

• Training and development to support long-term progression

• Modern systems and processes to support efficient file management

• Friendly, professional working culture

• Local, stable firm with an established client base

• Full-time, permanent position

• Wakefield-based role

About Our Client

Our client is a well-established law firm with a strong local reputation and a busy residential property offering. The firm is known for providing a professional, client-focused service and for supporting staff to build long-term careers.

Location & Working Arrangements

• Wakefield

• Full-time, permanent role

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.

Conveyancing Assistant (Residential / New Build)

Location: Leeds City Centre

Salary: £23,000 to £28,000 (depending on experience)

Experience: 12+ months’ conveyancing experience (sales and purchases)

This is a great opportunity for an experienced Conveyancing Assistant to join a busy property team in Leeds City Centre, supporting both residential and new build matters.

You will be in a client-facing role, working at pace, supporting fee earners with high-volume transactions and helping to keep matters moving from instruction through to completion. If you enjoy being organised, getting the detail right, and being the person who keeps the wheels turning, this role will suit you.

What You’ll Be Doing

• Opening new files and inputting instructions onto the case management system

• Producing relevant letters and documents at the outset of matters

• Updating the case management system in line with team procedures as files progress

• Issuing contracts on sale files and assisting with replies to enquiries

• Ordering searches and supporting general progression of matters

• Assisting with exchanges and related paperwork

• Setting up completions and supporting post-completion administration where required

• Issuing mortgage reports to clients

• Handling incoming post and telephone enquiries where appropriate

• General administration duties including filing, billing support, photocopying, sorting post and archiving

What We’re Looking For

Essential

• At least 12 months’ experience in conveyancing, specifically sales and purchases

• Experience in a similar fast-paced role with high volumes and regular client contact

• Strong keyboard skills and confidence using case management systems

• Literate and numerate, with strong attention to detail

• Ability to work accurately and follow instructions carefully

• Confident, friendly communication style with a professional approach to client care

• Ability to prioritise workload, meet deadlines and work well under pressure

• Able to work on your own initiative and as part of a team

• Flexible, adaptable approach

What’s On Offer

• £23,000 to £28,000 (depending on experience)

• Profit share bonus 

• 25 days’ holiday plus bank holidays

• Flexible and hybrid working options (role dependent)

• Generous pension

• Employee Assistance Programme (EAP)

• Enhanced family policies

• Paid volunteering days

• Training and development with clear progression opportunities

• Supportive, inclusive culture with wellbeing initiatives

About Our Client

Our client is a well-established Yorkshire law firm with a strong reputation for client care and a people-first culture. The firm is employee-owned, with a profit share scheme and a genuine focus on professional development, community values and staff wellbeing.

Location & Working Arrangements

• Leeds City Centre

• Full-time, permanent role

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.

Domestic Abuse Paralegal

Salary: £26,000–£35,000 + Hybrid Working

Location: London

Trauma-informed, meaningful legal work

The Role: Protective Injunctions & Family Proceedings

• Taking initial instructions sensitively, using a trauma-informed approach
• Drafting urgent applications including Non-Molestation Orders and Occupation Orders
• Preparing statements, chronologies, and supporting evidence in line with court and legal aid requirements
• Liaising with courts, police, support workers, and interpreters as required
• Completing Legal Aid applications, including emergency funding, accurately and on time
• Maintaining files and ensuring compliance with internal procedures and regulatory standards
• Attending hearings where required (as support and/or note-taker)
• Providing clear client updates and maintaining confidentiality and safeguarding at all times
• Supporting solicitors with correspondence, case progression, and wider administrative tasks

What Our Client Is Looking For (Experience & Skills)

• A law degree (LLB) or equivalent legal qualification
• 12+ months’ UK family law experience (legal aid exposure strongly preferred)
• Experience handling domestic abuse matters, ideally including protective injunctions
• Confidence managing your own caseload (or a strong track record running files with supervision)
• Working knowledge of Legal Aid Agency processes and CCMS
• Strong drafting skills (statements, applications, chronologies) and excellent attention to detail
• The ability to work calmly under pressure in urgent, sensitive situations
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office and case management systems
• A clear commitment to equality, diversity and inclusion

Career Development & Progression

Location & Working Arrangement

• Location: London
• Working pattern: Hybrid working available (details to be confirmed based on team requirements)

Salary & Benefits

• Salary: £26,000–£35,000 (dependent on experience)

Apply / Enquire (Confidential Conversation)

Court of Protection Solicitor (Health & Welfare)

Salary: £35,000–£75,000 + Hybrid Working

Location: London | High-quality H&W caseload with real progression

The Role: Court of Protection (Health & Welfare)

• Mental Capacity Act 2005 applications including s.16, s.21A, and deputyship matters
• Deprivation of Liberty Safeguards (DoLS) challenges
• Lasting Powers of Attorney (LPA) and Enduring Powers of Attorney (EPA) matters
• Drafting and preparing applications, witness statements, and supporting court documents
• Liaising with key stakeholders including the Official Solicitor, medical professionals, social services, and family members
• Attending hearings, mediations, and client meetings as required

Team & Department Contribution

• Supervising and supporting paralegals, trainees, and junior colleagues (where appropriate to level)
• Accurate time recording and billing, with strong attention to detail
• Compliance with legal aid and CCMS requirements (where applicable)
• Supporting business development and networking activity to help grow the department

Requirements (Skills, Experience & Qualifications)

• Qualified Solicitor (England & Wales) with a current practising certificate
• 1+ year PQE handling Court of Protection matters (or closely related work)
• Strong working knowledge of the Mental Capacity Act 2005 and relevant procedure
• Confidence working with vulnerable clients and families with empathy and professionalism
• Excellent drafting and communication skills (clear, accurate, and client-friendly)
• Strong organisation and the ability to manage competing priorities in a busy environment
• Competence with Microsoft Office (Word and Excel as a minimum)

• Legal aid / CCMS experience
• Experience from a related background such as Private Client, Mental Health, or Community Care

Salary, Level & Progression

• NQ–2 years PQE: £35,000–£50,000
• 3–7 years PQE: £50,000–£75,000

Location & Working Arrangement

• Location: London
• Working pattern: Hybrid working available (details to be confirmed based on team needs and level)

Apply / Enquire (Confidential Conversation)

Corporate & Commercial Solicitor (5+ PQE)

Salary: £85,000–£120,000 + bonus

Location: London

High-autonomy role with genuine department growth remit

The Opportunity

Key Responsibilities

• Managing a corporate-led caseload, with scope to support wider commercial matters where appropriate
• Advising on transactions and corporate advisory work, including (depending on experience):
  • Share and asset acquisitions/disposals
  • Shareholder agreements and investment documentation
  • Corporate governance and reorganisations
  • Commercial contracts (as required)
• Building and maintaining strong client relationships, with an emphasis on repeat business and referrals
• Contributing to business development, including networking, cross-referrals and supporting department growth plans
• Supporting and mentoring junior colleagues (where relevant)

Requirements (Essential)

• Qualified Solicitor in England & Wales
• 5+ years’ PQE with strong UK corporate law experience (private practice)
• Demonstrable experience handling corporate matters with appropriate autonomy
• Confidence in client-facing advisory work and stakeholder management
• Interest in (or track record of) business development and contributing to growth

Desirable (Nice to Have)

• Some form of client following or evidence of originating work (this can be modest)
• Experience supporting a broader commercial contracts workload
• Mentoring/supervision experience

Salary & Benefits

• £85,000–£120,000 basic salary (dependent on PQE, expertise and following)
• Bonus / performance-related incentives (where applicable)
• Pension contribution
• 25+ days annual leave plus bank holidays (typical for level, confirmed at offer stage)
• Hybrid working (pattern to be confirmed, with London office base)
• Professional development support, including training and clear progression opportunities as the department grows
• A role with genuine autonomy and visibility, offering a realistic pathway to increased responsibility and leadership over time

Location & Working Arrangements

• London (office-based team with hybrid working available)
• Working pattern and flexibility can be discussed based on experience and team needs.

Interested? Apply in Confidence

Solicitor – Housing & Development

Salary: £50,000 – £65,000 + Bonus

Location: Manchester

Experience: 2+ years PQE, UK Practice

Shaping the Future of Housing Development

Our client is a leading UK law firm with a well-established reputation for guiding individuals and families through complex private wealth matters. Their Private Client team in Manchester supports a diverse range of high-net-worth clients on intricate estate planning, trusts, tax, and succession issues. The firm is known for delivering tailored solutions with a personal touch, combining technical excellence with a collaborative, client-focused approach. This is a senior opportunity to make a real impact, advising on challenging and rewarding matters within a supportive, nationally recognised team.

About the Role

• Advising on residential development, site acquisitions, disposals, and regeneration projects

• Acting for registered providers, developers, and local authorities

• Drafting and negotiating development agreements, collaboration agreements, and related contracts

• Managing due diligence, title reviews, and risk assessments

• Supporting project delivery and client relationships alongside senior colleagues

• Assisting in supervising and developing junior team members

About You – Essential

• Qualified Solicitor in England & Wales with 2+ years’ PQE in residential development or housing

• Experience advising on site acquisitions, development agreements, and associated infrastructure matters

• Strong drafting, negotiation, and organisational skills

• Ability to manage transactions and maintain excellent client service

• Team player with a collaborative approach

About You – Desirable

• Experience acting for registered providers or local authorities

• Knowledge of regeneration and mixed-tenure developments

• Interest in affordable housing and community-focused projects

What’s On Offer

• Competitive salary with annual bonus

• Career progression and professional development support

• Investors in People Gold-accredited firm, demonstrating a genuine commitment to colleague development and wellbeing

• Clear, structured pathways for career progression and leadership, with tailored training and mentoring at every stage

• Hybrid and flexible working model to support work-life balance

• Comprehensive wellbeing support, prioritising mental, physical, and financial health, and a dedicated focus on inclusion and belonging

• Collaborative, supportive culture where your ideas and contributions are truly valued

• Opportunities to work on impactful, high-profile cases with a diverse and ambitious client base

• Enhanced pension and private healthcare, plus a competitive annual bonus

• Regular team and social events, community engagement, and a strong sense of purpose beyond the day job

About Our Client

Location & Working Arrangements

Based in Manchester with flexible and hybrid working options available.

How to Apply

For a confidential discussion about this opportunity, please contact Lee Hawthorne-Finch at Hawthorne-Finch Talent Solutions (lee.hawthorne-finch@h-fts.com / 0333 996 2882).

Hawthorne-Finch Talent Solutions is committed to ethical recruitment and supporting candidates throughout every stage of the hiring process.

Senior Fee Earner - Agricultural Commercial Property

Location: Southport (hybrid working)

Salary: £75,000 to £95,000 (depending on experience)

Experience: 7+ years PQE (Rural Property)

This is an excellent opportunity for a senior Rural Property Solicitor (7+ PQE) to join a busy and growing Rural Property team within a well-established regional law firm.

The role has a strong emphasis on agricultural work and advising landowners, estate owners, investors, lenders and developers. You will take a lead on matters, support and develop colleagues, and play an active role in business planning and the continued growth of the rural offering.

What You’ll Be Doing

• Managing the financial performance of your matters, including budgeting, billing and WIP management

• Delivering excellent client service and building long-term relationships

• Advising on a broad range of rural land ownership and agricultural property matters, including:

• Acquisitions and disposals of working farms and land

• Farm Business Tenancies (FBTs)

• Grazing licences

• Sporting rights and licences

• Easements and rights

• First registrations of unregistered land

• Security work (single and dual representation)

• Drafting and negotiating transactional documentation and producing clear, practical advice

• Working closely with colleagues across the wider firm, including tax and succession planning and property litigation teams

• Supervising, coaching and developing junior team members and supporting process improvement

• Contributing to business planning, business development and the strategic direction of the rural practice

• Using a case management system effectively and maintaining strong file management standards

What We’re Looking For

Essential

• Qualified Solicitor with 7+ years’ PQE and proven rural property experience, with a strong emphasis on agricultural work

• Strong technical ability and confidence running matters with appropriate autonomy

• Excellent client-facing skills and a track record of delivering high-quality service

• Experience supervising, supporting and developing others

• Strong organisation and planning skills, with the ability to prioritise and meet deadlines

• Confident IT user, comfortable working with a case management system

• Strong communication skills and attention to detail

Desirable

• Strong business development capability and an established or developing network within the rural sector

• Interest in shaping processes and supporting the continued growth of the team

What’s On Offer

• Hybrid working policy

• Bonus scheme and annual pay review

• Health cash plan and Employee Assistance Programme (EAP)

• Holiday entitlement that increases with length of service

• Two paid volunteering days per year

• Free conveyancing for your main home purchase or sale

• Free individual or mirror Wills

• Biannual promotion and salary uplift application process

• Regular social events and staff recognition initiatives

• Supportive culture with genuine investment in development and progression

Location & Working Arrangements

• Southport (other locations available)

• Full-time, permanent role

• Hybrid working supported

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.