Solicitor / Associate- Insurance (Complex Claims)
Forbes Solicitors are looking for a Solicitor/Associate to join our Insurance (Complex Claims) team based at our Gordon House office. Our Leeds office can also be considered for this role.
About the role
This is a full-time role working 36.25 hours per week, Monday - Friday, 9am until 5pm. The role offers a sustainable work-life balance while working to the high standards of a law firm. You will work in a supportive environment, assisting Partners on complex matters including Catastrophic Loss and handling your own diverse caseload of complex Defendant Insurance related claims, primarily consisting of Employers and Public Liability Claims resulting from injuries.
Responsibilities
- Handle or support a varied caseload of Defendant Insurance related claims, primarily Employers and Public Liability Claims resulting from injuries.
- Advise on complex liability, contractual, and indemnity issues.
- Provide expert legal advice and strategic guidance to clients.
- Ensure profitability and attainment of all KPIs, including time recording, financial management, and service delivery.
- Complete legal tasks and documentation accurately, including legal research, drafting, and calculation of financial liability.
- Analyse legal matters, assess risks, and determine case strategies.
- Negotiate, mediate, or litigate to achieve optimal client outcomes.
- Collaborate on complex cases with Associates, Senior Associates, and Partners.
- Deliver exceptional client care and maintain clear, effective communication.
- Represent clients in court or liaise with counsel as needed.
- Ensure compliance with internal and external business requirements, including ISO:9001 quality control, SRA Principles/Code of Conduct, and Court & Tribunal deadlines.
- Stay current with legal developments through ongoing CPD.
- Build positive relationships with current/prospective clients and enhance the Firm’s profile to drive business growth.
Requirements
- Be a qualified Solicitor (or CILEX equivalent) with 3 - 5 years PQE.
- Demonstrable experience and expert knowledge of Employers and Public Liability claims.
- Expert knowledge of CPR and Insurance litigation processes.
- Previous experience advising commercial organisations and dealing with insurers.
- Previous experience using legal case management systems (e.g., PfW).
- Proven experience handling your own caseload, managing deadlines, and generating fees in line with agreed targets.
- Good client care skills, providing professional and competent legal advice in accordance with the SRA Code of Conduct.
- Excellent attention to detail, including proof-reading and editing skills.
- Ability to prioritise tasks, manage time effectively, and coordinate multiple activities to meet deadlines.
- Ability to work as part of a team.
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills for interacting with clients, colleagues, and external parties.
- Strong IT skills and proficiency in using platforms such as Word, Excel, Outlook, and case management systems/databases.
- Alignment with the Firm’s values.
Qualifications
Desirable:
- Previous experience handling/working on complex matters in the sports and/or construction sectors.
- Previous experience with high value/catastrophic loss work.
- Previous experience with Business Development activities, including networking with potential clients.
About the Firm
Forbes Solicitors offers a supportive and collaborative environment where team members can thrive. We provide a comprehensive range of legal services with offices across the North and deep roots in Lancashire. Our team is known for genuine, practical advice and a passion for achieving the best results. The Firm is ranked as a Legal 500 Top Tier Firm and a Chambers and Partners Leading Firm. We are values-led, focusing on authenticity, striving for exceptional results, and unity in teamwork.
Benefits
- 33 days annual leave, including bank holidays, increasing with length of service.
- Annual leave purchase scheme (Subject to T&Cs).
- Enhanced family-friendly policies and pay for Maternity, Paternity, and Adoption Leave.
- Enhanced sick pay.
- Celebration and Volunteering leave.
- Ongoing professional development and progression opportunities.
- Profit share scheme.
- Additional long service awards.
- Subsidised tuck shops.
- Staff discount on Firm services.
- Health care benefits (Health Cash Back Plan and Mental Health Counselling Services).
- BUPA (Solicitor positions only, for self, not dependants).
- Retail and gym membership discounts.
- Recruitment and legal department referrals (Subject to T&Cs).
- Annual Events.
Schedule
Full-time, 36.25 hours per week, Monday - Friday, 9am until 5pm.