Senior Litigation Solicitor

Thornton Legal; Lancashire; Hybrid; GBP 60,000 - 80,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Hybrid working

Flexible hours

Established caseload with handover

Path to Director level

Job summary

Thornton Legal is seeking an ambitious litigator to lead the expansion of the firm’s litigation offering. The role is designed for someone ready to take over an established practice with a strong client base, backed by a planned handover from a retiring senior litigator.

Hybrid working and flexible hours support a sustainable progression path toward director level. You will manage a varied civil litigation caseload, advise on disputes—from property and contractual matters to debt recovery and

Qualifications

• Solicitor with around 4 years' PQE or above
• Experience in civil litigation or related areas would be advantageous
• Capable of managing own caseload and building client relationships

Responsibilities

• Manage a broad range of civil litigation matters from instruction through to resolution
• Advise on disputes including property litigation, contractual disputes, debt recovery, commercial litigation and other general civil matters
• Build long-term relationships with both private and commercial clients
• Work closely with colleagues across the firm to support cross-referrals and client service
• Play a key role in the future development of the litigation department
• Progress into a senior leadership position, with a clear route towards Director level for the right individual

Skills

Client relationship management

Caseload management

Leadership potential

Stakeholder communication

Education

4 years PQE or above

Job description

The role has been created as part of a long-term transition, with a highly experienced litigator planning for retirement after more than three decades in practice. The successful solicitor will benefit from a structured handover, an existing client base and the opportunity to develop and lead the litigation offering over time.

For an ambitious litigator looking for genuine progression rather than another fee-earning role, this presents a rare opportunity.

About the Firm

This long-established regional firm has built its reputation on providing practical, relationship-led legal advice to private individuals, owner-managed businesses and commercial clients across the North West.

The culture is supportive, approachable and down-to-earth, with many members of the team having built long careers within the firm. Decisions are made locally, colleagues work collaboratively across departments and there is a genuine commitment to developing people for the long term.

The Opportunity

You'll inherit an established and varied caseload while working alongside the current Head of Litigation during a planned handover.

The role offers the scope to:

• Manage a broad range of civil litigation matters from instruction through to resolution.
• Advise on disputes including property litigation, contractual disputes, debt recovery, commercial litigation and other general civil matters.
• Build long-term relationships with both private and commercial clients.
• Work closely with colleagues across the firm to support cross-referrals and client service.
• Play a key role in the future development of the litigation department.
• Progress into a senior leadership position, with a clear route towards Director level for the right individual.

About You

Likely to suit a solicitor with around 4 years' PQE or above as a guide.

Applications are welcomed from solicitors with a range of litigation backgrounds. While experience in general civil litigation would be advantageous, the firm is open to speaking with lawyers whose expertise includes areas such as:

• Commercial litigation
• Property litigation
• Contentious probate
• Personal injury
• Professional negligence
• General dispute resolution

Most importantly, you'll be confident managing your own caseload, enjoy building client relationships and be interested in taking ownership of a practice with genuine long-term prospects.

Salary & Benefits

• £60,000 - £80,000 depending on experience
• Hybrid working with days negotiated around the needs of the team
• Flexible start and finish times
• Established caseload with a planned and supported handover
• Genuine progression to Director level

Why Consider This Role?

Opportunities to inherit an established litigation practice with a structured succession plan are uncommon.

Rather than joining to build a department from scratch, you'll be stepping into a respected practice with longstanding clients, experienced colleagues and a firm that is investing in its future. The role offers autonomy, stability and a realistic pathway into senior leadership.