NQ Construction Lawyer - Contentious Focus - Cardiff

Chadwick Nott; Bristol; Hybrid; GBP 52,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading UK law firm in Cardiff is seeking a Newly Qualified Construction Lawyer to join its recognized Construction team. The position focuses on contentious matters including litigation and dispute resolution. Ideal candidates will have a background in construction law and strong drafting skills. The firm offers a competitive salary of £52,000 to £60,000 plus benefits, including hybrid work arrangements and professional development opportunities.

Benefits

25 days holiday

Discretionary bonus scheme

Private medical insurance

Generous pension

Comprehensive learning and development programme

Qualifications

• Newly qualified solicitor eager to specialise in contentious construction law.
• Experience from paralegal work will be considered.

Responsibilities

• Assist with adjudications, litigation, and dispute resolution.
• Support senior lawyers on complex disputes and strategic advisory work.
• Draft correspondence, pleadings, and client advice notes.

Skills

Strong drafting skills

Analytical skills

Confidence and curiosity

Collaborative work

Education

Completed a construction seat during training

Job description

Overview

NQ Construction Lawyer - Contentious Focus - Cardiff

Location: Cardiff Office (Hybrid & Flexible)

Type of Role: Permanent, Full-time

Salary: £52,000 to £60,000 + Benefits

A leading UK law firm is offering an exciting opportunity for a Newly Qualified Construction Lawyer to join its nationally recognised Construction team in Cardiff. This role is ideal for someone who has completed a construction seat during training and is looking to build a career in contentious construction law.

The Role

You\'ll be joining a supportive and well-established Cardiff-based team, with access to a strong national network and a healthy pipeline of work-including several new projects for major housebuilders and housing associations. Your work will focus primarily on contentious matters, including:

• Assisting with adjudications, litigation, and dispute resolution (including mediation and pre-action protocol)


• Supporting senior lawyers on complex disputes and strategic advisory work


• Drafting correspondence, pleadings, and client advice notes


• Attending client meetings and gaining early exposure to business development


• Working with national developers, contractors, and social housing providers

While the role is predominantly contentious, there may be opportunities to assist on non-contentious matters depending on your interests and team needs.

Candidate Requirements

This role is suited to a newly qualified solicitor who:

• Has completed a construction seat during training or gained relevant experience through paralegal work


• Is keen to specialise in contentious construction law


• Has strong drafting and analytical skills


• Is confident, curious, and eager to learn from experienced colleagues


• Enjoys working collaboratively and building client relationships


• Is looking for a firm that values development, balance, and long-term career growth

Working Arrangements

• Hybrid working with one day per week in the Cardiff office


• Structured supervision and mentoring from experienced construction lawyers


• Opportunities to work closely with a national team while developing locally

Benefits

In addition to a competitive salary, the firm offers:

• 25 days holiday (plus option to buy up to 5 extra days)


• Discretionary bonus scheme


• Private medical insurance and wellbeing support


• Generous pension and life assurance


• Inclusive, values-driven culture with long-term career support


• Comprehensive learning and development programme

If you\'re newly qualified and ready to launch your career in construction law, this is a brilliant opportunity to join a team that will invest in your growth and give you real responsibility from day one.

[e-mail]

0117 917 1515 / 07711 799761

Olivia Reed | LinkedIn

Chadwick Nott is committed to promoting diversity and inclusion across the legal profession. Applications are welcomed from all qualified candidates, regardless of background. Where a level of experience is indicated, this is intended as a guideline only.

Chadwick Nott is committed to developing a diverse and inclusive culture as well as supporting our large client network achieve the same. We are an equal opportunities employer and encourage applications of all qualified candidates regardless of age, sex, race, disability, sexual orientation, culture or anything other personal characteristic. We champion and celebrate diversity in the workplace. Where a level of experience is indicated, please note that this is only a guideline.