Overview
This role is within the Health Litigation team, specialising in defending clinical negligence claims for NHS Resolution (formerly NHS Litigation Authority), NHS Trusts and other defendant clinical negligence clients, including primary care clients.
The team handles obstetric and neonatal claims (including brain injuries) as well as safety matters. Opportunity exists to develop a specialism in this area under guidance from experienced team members.
Hours
Monday to Friday, 09:00–17:30 (37.5 hours per week)
Location
Liverpool, Leeds or Remote
Responsibilities
The Associate / Senior Associate will:
- Run a caseload of clinical negligence files, including:
- Analysing evidence and organising appropriate investigations
- Drafting reports and advising clients
- Interviewing witnesses and drafting witness statements
- Instructing experts
- Instructing Counsel
- Attending Court for Case Management Conferences and Application Hearings
- Negotiating settlements
- Holding conferences with Counsel
- Preparing for and attending trials and different forms of ADR
- Carry out additional duties including:
- Supervising colleagues’ work and supporting team development through delegation and coaching
- Assisting colleagues in running higher value claims
- Building and maintaining client and internal relationships, in line with internal and external operating procedures
- Delivering client training and presentations
- Drafting articles for clients
- Contributing to business development by seeking new opportunities
- Making a wider contribution to the Health Business Group and wider firm by continually seeking improvements
- Covering secondments to NHS Resolution or NHS Trusts, as needed
Requirements (Important criteria)
- Qualified Solicitor with 3–9 years PQE
- Experience with an NHS Resolution Panel firm or MDO is preferred but not essential
- Experience of NHS Resolution’s EN Scheme and maternity-related claims is preferred; willingness to develop knowledge in this area is essential
- Ability to work independently and as part of a growing team, whether in the office or working remotely
- Demonstrates understanding of client needs and expectations
- Willingness to invest time in the development of junior team members
- Adheres to guidelines and client protocols/KPIs
- Proactive, pragmatic approach with focus on quality
- Excellent attention to detail
- Excellent organisational and communication skills
- Appreciation of client data security requirements
- Evidence of meeting hours and contribution target
Equality, Diversity and Inclusion
The employer is committed to providing fairness and equal opportunity for all regardless of age, gender, gender identity, ethnic origin, disability, sexual orientation, marital or transgender status, nationality, religion or belief.
Applications will be considered based on merit alone. Applications are welcomed from all suitably qualified individuals regardless of background and from all routes to qualification, including both SRA and CILEx.
Disability Support
The employer is a Disability Confident employer. If adjustments are needed to make a visit easier so you are able to perform at your best, please let the employer know.
Pre-employment Screening
All successful candidates will be subject to standard pre-employment screening, including a basic criminal record check via Disclosure and Barring Service. Any offer of employment made is conditional upon completion of all checks.
Application Timing
Due to high response levels for some vacancies, roles may be closed prior to the advertised closing date. Applicants are advised to submit their applications as soon as possible.