Job Description
Senior Commercial Litigation Solicitor
Location: Surrey
Salary: c.£70,000 – £90,000+ DOE/PQE
Are you an experienced Commercial Litigator seeking high-calibre, multi-jurisdictional disputes work outside the City, backed by a clear, defined trajectory to Partnership? Our client is a highly regarded, long-established law firm in Surrey with an outstanding reputation across commercial dispute resolution. Experiencing sustained expansion across their litigation practice, they are seeking an ambitious Senior Associate (6+ PQE) to manage high-value, complex commercial disputes, mentor junior team members, and drive departmental growth.
The Opportunity
In this key senior position, you will take direct responsibility for managing a diverse, high-profile caseload of complex civil and commercial litigation for a national and international client base. Handling all phases of litigation—from pre-action strategy and injunctive relief through to trial, appeal, and cross-border enforcement—you will act as a key adviser to corporate entities, directors, shareholders, and high-net-worth individuals. This role offers direct involvement in practice development, sub-team management, and a transparent pathway to Partnership for a commercial, ambitious litigator.
Key Responsibilities & Requirements
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Qualifications & Experience: Qualified Solicitor (England & Wales) or Fellow of CILEx with a minimum of 6+ years’ post-qualification experience (PQE) specializing in commercial litigation within a reputable UK private practice.
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Technical Mastery & Caseload Leadership: Proven track record independently managing complex commercial disputes, with specialist expertise in shareholder/director disputes, partnership dissolutions, breach of contract claims, corporate insolvency, and civil fraud.
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Multi-Jurisdictional Exposure: Strong understanding of comparative law, conflict of laws, and cross-border enforcement of foreign judgments.
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Court & ADR Advocacy: Exceptional strategic negotiation, written drafting, and trial preparation skills, with extensive experience representing clients in court hearings, mediations, and arbitrations.
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Team Leadership & Business Development: Demonstrated ability to mentor and supervise junior fee earners, combined with strong networking skills and a track record of business development (a portable client following is welcome but not essential).
Package & Working Structure
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Competitive Remuneration: £70,000 – £90,000 base salary per annum (commensurate with PQE and technical background) plus a performance-related bonus scheme.
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Agile Working: Modern hybrid working arrangements (flexible office/home split) supported alongside core office hours.
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Comprehensive Benefits: Generous annual leave allowance plus bank holidays, private medical insurance, workplace pension scheme, payment of professional membership fees, and full CPD funding.
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Career Trajectory: Defined, transparent Partnership pathway available for suitable candidates looking to step into practice leadership.
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Culture & Support: Collaborative, supportive team environment benefiting from dedicated secretarial support and steady cross-departmental referrals.
How to Apply
To discuss this opportunity in complete confidence or request a full position profile, please contact David Hawthorne-Finch directly:
Hawthorne-Finch Talent Solutions is acting as an employment agency for this vacancy. All applications and enquiries are treated with the strictest confidence, and candidate details are never shared without prior express consent.