Commercial/Construction Litigation Solicitor

Hawthorne-Finch Talent Solutions; Leeds; Hybrid; GBP 55,000 - 70,000; Full time

Job summary

Hawthorne-Finch Talent Solutions is seeking a Commercial Litigation Solicitor or CILEX Lawyer for a Leeds-based role with construction disputes focus. Hybrid working from Leeds, 3+ years PQE, and a salary in the 55k–70k range depending on experience.

The successful candidate will handle a broad commercial litigation caseload, contribute to strategy, and work closely with senior colleagues while running matters with supervision.

Qualifications

• 3+ years PQE (or equivalent)
• Strong background in commercial litigation
• Construction disputes experience desirable or interest to develop
• Ability to run matters with supervision while maintaining high file standards

Responsibilities

• Manage a varied caseload of commercial litigation
• Advise on construction-related disputes including strategy and case progression
• Draft pleadings, correspondence and key documents
• Manage disclosure and witness evidence processes
• Handle negotiations and settlements, support mediation/ADR
• Attend client meetings and conferences with counsel
• Collaborate with multi-disciplinary teams across the firm
• Develop strong client relationships through clear communication and proactive matter management

Skills

Commercial litigation

Construction disputes

Drafting

Education

Qualified solicitor or CILEX

Job description

Commercial Litigation Solicitor / CILEX Lawyer (Construction Disputes)

Salary: £55,000 to £70,000 (depending on experience)

Location: Leeds (hybrid working)

Experience: 3+ years’ PQE (or equivalent)

If you are a Commercial Litigation lawyer who enjoys complex disputes, wants to build genuine depth in construction-related contentious work, and is looking for a role with real momentum behind it, this is a strong opportunity.

Our client is a well-established national law firm with an existing reputation in dispute resolution. The firm is backed by a fast-moving private equity investor, bringing significant investment, pace and opportunity. The Leeds team is looking to hire a qualified Commercial Litigation Solicitor or CILEX Lawyer to support growth and take on responsibility early.

You will join a busy disputes team handling a broad range of commercial litigation, with a particular interest in candidates who can bring (or develop) construction disputes capability. This is not a role for someone whose experience is primarily personal injury. You will have the chance to work closely with experienced colleagues while also running your own matters with appropriate supervision.

What You’ll Be Doing

• Managing a varied caseload of commercial litigation matters, with a focus on delivering practical, commercial outcomes
• Advising on construction-related disputes where relevant, including supporting on strategy, evidence and case progression
• Drafting pleadings, correspondence and key documents, and managing disclosure and witness evidence processes
• Handling negotiations and settlement discussions, and supporting mediation and other forms of ADR
• Attending client meetings, conferences with counsel and hearings as required
• Working closely with colleagues across the wider firm on multi-disciplinary disputes
• Building strong client relationships through clear communication and proactive matter management
• Supporting business development activity, including relationship building and profile raising

What We’re Looking For

• Qualified Solicitor (England and Wales) or Chartered Legal Executive with 3+ years’ PQE (or equivalent experience)
• Strong commercial litigation background (essential)
• Construction disputes experience is highly desirable, or a clear interest in developing in this area
• Experience of running matters with appropriate supervision, managing deadlines and maintaining high standards of file management
• Strong drafting skills, attention to detail and sound judgement
• Confident communicator with a collaborative, team-first approach

What’s On Offer

• Salary of 550,000 to £70,000 (depending on experience)
• Hybrid working from the Leeds office
• A high-quality pipeline of work within a national team
• A growth environment backed by private equity investment, with genuine opportunity to progress
• Supportive culture with access to training, development and mentoring

Working Arrangements

Full time, permanent role based in Leeds with hybrid working.

All applications will be handled in the strictest confidence. We will never share your details with any client without your express permission.