Police Claims Solicitor

Weightmans LLP; London; On-site; GBP 40,000 - 70,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading UK law firm is seeking experienced solicitors to join their national Casualty Police Claims team. This role involves managing a caseload of civil claims against the police, supporting junior members, and engaging in client development activities. Ideal candidates will be qualified solicitors with excellent skills in organization, communication, and teamwork. Join a reputable firm recognized for its outstanding workplace culture and benefits.

Benefits

Award-winning organization

Recognition as a top employer

Career development opportunities

Qualifications

• Preferably, experience in defending civil claims.
• Ability to undertake advocacy as required.
• Knowledge of the CPR and litigation.
• Desirable knowledge of police law.
• Flexible approach to work and willingness to travel.

Responsibilities

• Specialise in civil actions against the police.
• Manage pre-litigated and litigated claims.
• Conduct client development and networking.
• Support and mentor junior team members.
• Attend court hearings and conduct advocacy.

Skills

Defending civil claims

Excellent organisation skills

Excellent communication skills

Time management

Teamwork

Education

Qualified solicitor

Tools

Legal research software

Microsoft Office Suite

Job description

About your new role

Our Emergency Services team is one of the largest in the UK. Our approach is focused on solving our client's legal problems quickly, efficiently, and cost-effectively. We are leaders in services for police forces, with expertise in all types of claims, including handling sensitive and high-profile cases with media attention. Our specialists act exclusively for the police service, representing various Forces across England and Wales. As the largest dedicated police legal team in the country, our lawyers have been involved in some of the most high-profile cases involving the police over the past 15 years.

We currently have an exciting opportunity for four solicitors (4+ PQE) to join our national Casualty Police Claims team, based in Liverpool, Manchester, or Leicester.

In this role, you will act on behalf of police forces, managing a caseload of pre-litigated and litigated claims, and supporting other fee earners.

Main duties and responsibilities include:

1. Specialising in defending civil claims against police forces, claims handlers, and insurers.
2. Managing a caseload of civil 'malfeasance' claims (such as false imprisonment, trespass, malicious prosecution, and Human Rights Act claims) and employer’s liability claims.
3. Assisting the Team Manager and colleagues with client development, training, and networking.
4. Mentoring junior team members.
5. Liaising with solicitors, insurers, experts, counsel, and clients.
6. Managing diaries and client MI procedures.
7. Attending court hearings and conducting advocacy where appropriate.
8. Maintaining high standards of client care.
9. Achieving financial and chargeable hours targets.
10. Ensuring compliance with rules, policies, and procedures.
11. Staying updated on legal developments.
12. Working in accordance with Weightmans’ values.

This list is not exhaustive; additional duties may be assigned as needed. You will also need to comply with relevant policies and work in line with our values.

#INDHIGH

About You

You will be a qualified solicitor with:

• Experience in defending civil claims; claimant experience will also be considered.
• Ability to undertake advocacy.
• Knowledge of CPR and litigation.
• Knowledge of police law (desirable but not essential).
• Excellent organization, time management, communication, and IT skills.
• Ability to meet deadlines and work independently or as part of a team.
• Flexibility to travel.

If you meet these criteria and are enthusiastic and eager to learn, we look forward to your application.

Please Note

The successful candidate will need to complete police vetting before starting employment, including meeting residency criteria as per APP on Vetting 2021. For details, click here.

Why work for us

Join our award-winning organization. Weightmans has been recognized as a top employer for 18 consecutive years, ranked 5th in Britain’s Top Employers awards 2025, and has top positions in Chambers UK.

Embark on a journey towards becoming one of the Top 30 UK law firms.

Learn more: Work for Weightmans: voted a top employer

This link provides info on our culture, benefits, D&I, recruitment policies, and UK work eligibility.

Work where people matter – work for Weightmans