Associate (Disputes) - Mid-Level

Herbert Smith Freehills; Greater London; On-site; GBP 50,000 - 70,000; Full time

Job summary

A global law firm seeks a qualified legal practitioner in London for a permanent contract role. This position involves managing contentious matters, developing client relationships, and contributing to diversity initiatives. Candidates should have 2-4 years of experience in dispute resolution, strong legal skills, and a good understanding of law firm profitability. The firm values personal leadership and collaborative teamwork, aiming to create an inclusive culture that fosters success.

Qualifications

• 2-4 years of legal experience in dispute resolution.
• Good understanding of law firm profitability and financial efficiency.

Responsibilities

• Manage work on contentious matters like commercial litigation.
• Strengthen client relationships by anticipating needs.
• Contribute to diversity and inclusion initiatives.

Skills

Legal skills

Drafting

Negotiation

Project management

People management

Business development

Education

Qualified legal practitioner in a common law jurisdiction

Job description

JOB DESCRIPTION

At Herbert Smith Freehills Kramer, our ambition is to help you achieve your goals.

Exceptional client service and the pursuit of excellence are at our core. We invest in and care about our client relationships, which is why many are incredibly longstanding. And we enjoy breaking new ground, as we have for over 100 years.

We are where you need us to be. We are in the world's largest markets, key financial centres and major growth hubs. Our international footprint is extensive and committed.

We are at our best tackling complexity and navigating change. We work alongside you on demanding contentious matters, exacting regulatory work and complex public and private market transactions. We are recognised as leading in these areas.

We are immersed in the sectors and challenges that impact you. We are recognised as standing apart in energy, ESG, infrastructure and resources. And we're focused on areas of growth that affect every business across the world, including technology and digitalisation.

All of this is achieved by supporting the growth of our people, who help us deliver on our ambition - which is to help you achieve yours.

Your goals. Our ambition.

The Opportunity

Primary Responsibilities

This role could entail working on a range of contentious matters such as commercial litigation, banking & regulatory disputes and investigations.

Manage work to support optimal utilisation; assist senior lawyers as required, acting as lead lawyer, where appropriate; delegate and provide feedback to juniors and communicate progress on tasks to supervisor and team members, consulting and offering solutions on difficult technical client issues; and manage the billing process as appropriate.

Manage, develop and strengthen client relationships through anticipating client needs and expectations; and provide prompt responses and updates on progress.

Support the firm and others - establish effective relationships with individuals and groups, across the global network; uphold the firm’s values; contribute to the firm’s initiatives (eg corporate social responsibility and diversity and inclusion activities); mentor and support juniors; raise profile by being involved with external bodies and supporting and attending marketing / industry events; and assist with internal training and preparation of legal precedents.

Comply with risk requirements, firm policies and all relevant professional responsibilities and legislation and contribute to billing, engagement and client acceptance processes.

Qualifications, skills and experience

Qualified legal practitioner in a common law jurisdiction.

Between two to four years of legal experience in dispute resolution, we are open to considering candidates with more or less experience.

Strong legal skills, including drafting, negotiation and project management skills; foundation level people management and business development skills.

Good understanding of law firm profitability and key drivers for financial efficiency; and ability to help manage costs and budgets.

Competencies

• Personal leadership Takes initiative, embraces challenge and brings energy and drive to their work
• Technical capability Seeks opportunities to grow and develop to deliver value for our clients
• Collaborates with others Works as a team player, learns from and supports others
• Plans and delivers outcomes Operates as an effective legal project manager
• Enhances the client experience Builds relationships and innovates for the firm’s future
• Contributes to building the firm Builds relationships and innovates for the firm’s future

Team

Disputes

Working Pattern

Full time

Location

London

Contract type

Permanent Contract

Diversity & Inclusion

We are committed to attracting people from all backgrounds and creating a respectful and inclusive culture where everyone thrives. We see this as essential to our success, including our ability to innovate and achieve sustained high performance. This is a key part of our Values—Human, Bold, and Outstanding.