Public Law & Human Rights Solicitor NQ - 4 PQE - Bristol

Chadwick Nott; Bristol; Hybrid; GBP 40,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading national law firm in Bristol is seeking a Public Law & Human Rights Solicitor (NQ - 4 PQE) to manage a diverse caseload focused on the rights of vulnerable adults. The ideal candidate will have experience in Court of Protection welfare matters and a passion for public law and human rights. Exceptional communication skills are essential, as the role involves direct work with clients and supervising junior team members. This position offers a supportive environment with benefits including flexible working and a strong pension scheme.

Benefits

25 days holiday plus bank holidays

Flexible and generous pension scheme

Health membership and digital GP access

Strong wellbeing offering

Qualifications

• Experience managing own Court of Protection welfare caseload.
• Passionate about public law and access to justice.
• Ability to work independently and within a team.

Responsibilities

• Manage a varied caseload involving mental capacity issues.
• Represent clients in complex disputes with empathy.
• Supervise and support junior colleagues.

Skills

Court of Protection welfare matters

Exceptional communication skills

Public law and human rights advocacy

Job description

Public Law & Human Rights Solicitor NQ - 4 PQE - Bristol

Chadwick Nott are delighted to be instructed by a leading national law firm on a new opening for a solicitor with experience in Court of Protection (welfare) work to join their highly regarded Public Law and Human Rights team. This role centres on protecting the rights of vulnerable adults and ensuring their voices are heard in some of the most sensitive and life‑changing decisions affecting their health, care and personal autonomy.

The Work

You’ll handle a varied and meaningful caseload involving:

• Mental capacity issues under the Mental Capacity Act 2005
• Health and welfare applications, including medical treatment and residence
• Deputyship matters supporting families and professionals
• Safeguarding concerns and best‑interests decision‑making
• Contested disputes around care, treatment and living arrangements

There is also scope to become involved in wider public law and human rights matters.

Your Role

From day one, you will:

• Manage your own Court of Protection welfare caseload
• Represent clients in complex and often sensitive disputes
• Supervise and support junior colleagues
• Help develop the team’s profile and strengthen relationships with partner organisations
• Work directly with vulnerable individuals, delivering advice with empathy, clarity and professionalism

About You

We’re looking for someone who:

• Has experience running their own COP welfare matters
• Is passionate about public law, human rights and access to justice
• Can work independently while contributing to a collaborative team
• Exceptional communication skills
• Is committed to achieving the best outcomes for vulnerable clients

Benefits

• 25 days’ holiday plus bank holidays, with the option to purchase additional leave
• Flexible and generous pension scheme
• Health membership and access to digital GP services
• A strong wellbeing offering, including hybrid working

For more information about this role please contact Hannah Somers at Chadwick Nott.

(t) 0117 917 1929
(m) 07435 943574
(e) [e-mail]

At Chadwick Nott, we are committed to developing a diverse and inclusive culture as well as supporting our large client network to achieve the same. We are an equal‑opportunities employer and encourage applications of all qualified candidates regardless of their age, sex, race, disability, sexual orientation, culture or any 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.