Associate Solicitor – Dispute Resolution – Derby

Smith Partnership; East Midlands; On-site; GBP 45,000 - 70,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Supportive environment

Career development

Work-life balance

Dispute resolution exposure

Job summary

Smith Partnership in Derby is seeking an Associate Dispute Resolution Solicitor to join our growing team. You will handle a broad range of commercial, civil and property disputes, providing clear guidance to clients and collaborating with colleagues to deliver effective resolution.

We welcome a solicitor with passion for dispute resolution and 2–4 years PQE, who can develop expertise in property-based litigation and contribute to business development while delivering excellent client service.

Qualifications

• Qualified solicitor with dispute resolution experience.
• 2-4 years PQE preferred.
• Interest in property-based disputes welcome.
• Able to work in a supportive, collaborative team.

Responsibilities

• Advise on commercial, civil and property disputes.
• Draft key documents (claims, settlements, pleadings).
• Represent clients at court hearings.
• Collaborate to manage growing caseload.
• Contribute to business development of the department.

Skills

Dispute resolution

Client relationships

Teamwork

Commercial awareness

Job description

Associate Solicitor – Dispute Resolution – Derby

Office

Derby Norman House

Hours

Full Time - 9AM to 5PM (Monday to Friday)

Smith Partnership is a leading law firm in the East Midlands and Staffordshire, employing around 200 colleagues across 5 offices, who recently celebrated winning the Sunday Times Best Places to Work 2026.

A forward thinking and progressive firm employing around 200 colleagues through 5 offices.

Role Overview:

Are you a solicitor with a passion for dispute resolution? Are you looking to take the next step in your career in a supportive, collaborative team? If so, we want to hear from you!

Our reputable firm is seeking an Associate Dispute Resolution Solicitor to join our dynamic and growing Dispute Resolution team. You will be involved in a wide range of commercial and civil litigation matters, with a particular emphasis on property-based disputes. Alongside the rest of the team, you will provide vital support and guidance to clients navigating challenging situations.

Ideally, you will have an interest in disputes involving both commercial and residential property, or a willingness to become engaged in this growing area of the department.

This is the perfect opportunity to build on your experience, develop your legal career, and contribute to a progressive and dynamic environment.

What You’ll Do:

• Advise clients on a wide range of commercial, civil and property-based disputes. This will include all aspects of property litigation, contractual disputes, landlord & tenant matters, and debt recovery.
• Draft key legal documents, including claim forms, settlement agreements, and pleadings.iv>
• Represent clients at Court hearings for matters such as Directions Hearings or Final Hearings.
• Collaborate closely with our team of experienced dispute resolution solicitors to manage a growing and diverse caseload.
• Engage in business development efforts, contributing to the growth of the Department.

What We’re Looking For:

• Qualified Solicitor with strong experience in dispute resolution, ideally 2-4 years PQE.
• A proactive and commercially-minded individual who can manage client relationships with professionalism and sensitivity.
• Experience in handling dispute resolution cases with a keen eye for detail, and a passion for supporting clients through complex legal challenges.
• A background in property-based litigation would be desirable, but not essential (as full training will be given).
• Ability to work effectively in a team, contributing to the smooth running and growth of the department.

Benefits and Perks:

• A competitive salary and benefits package.
• A supportive and collaborative environment.
• Opportunities for career development.
• A strong focus on work-life balance and flexibility.
• Opportunity to gain experience in a well-established and respective dispute resolution practice.

Privacy:

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To find out more about the office, here .