Junior Qualified Solicitor

Job Title: Junior / Newly Qualified Solicitor or CILEX Lawyer (Litigation Practice Rights) - Landlord & Tenant Litigation

Location: Uckfield, East Sussex

Job Type: Permanent, Full-Time (Office-Based)

Salary: Competitive, dependent on qualifications and experience, with salary review upon successful completion of probation

Our Client Our client is a well-established legal practice specialising in landlord and tenant litigation. They act for a diverse range of clients, including private landlords, managing agents, and insurance companies, providing expert advice and representation across a variety of property disputes and possession proceedings.

The Role Due to continued growth, our client is seeking a Junior or Newly Qualified Solicitor, or a CILEX Lawyer with litigation practice rights, to join their busy Landlord & Tenant Litigation Department.

This is an excellent opportunity for an ambitious legal professional looking to develop their litigation career within a supportive and specialist environment. Working alongside experienced fee earners and under the supervision of a senior solicitor, you will gain exposure to a wide range of possession proceedings, defended matters, and landlord and tenant disputes.

Key Responsibilities You will be responsible for a varied caseload and support the wider litigation team with duties including:

• Undertaking fee-earning work under supervision and contributing to the department's workload
• Assisting with defended and complex landlord and tenant litigation matters, including Fast Track and Multi-Track cases
• Drafting legal documents and ensuring compliance with court directions and orders
• Progressing towards managing smaller matters independently while supporting on larger cases
• Corresponding with clients, defendants, courts, solicitors, advocates, counsel, and managing agents
• Keeping clients informed and updated throughout the litigation process
• Issuing possession claims through the Possession Claims Online system
• Preparing court applications, including manual possession claims, accelerated possession proceedings, and warrant applications
• Drafting notices seeking possession
• Preparing instructions for advocates and counsel
• Maintaining accurate case records and updating case management spreadsheets
• Supporting the department in delivering a high standard of client service

Requirements

• Qualified Solicitor (Junior/NQ) or CILEX Lawyer with litigation practice rights
• Good understanding of landlord and tenant law (training can be provided for candidates without direct landlord and tenant experience)
• Basic knowledge of the Civil Procedure Rules and litigation procedures
• Strong IT skills and confidence using case management systems
• Excellent organisational skills and ability to manage competing priorities
• Strong attention to detail and accuracy
• Confident communicator with the ability to build relationships with clients and third parties
• Able to work independently and as part of a small, collaborative team
• Comfortable working in a fast-paced environment and meeting deadlines
• Professional, adaptable, and committed to maintaining confidentiality
• Eager to learn and develop specialist legal expertise

Benefits

• Competitive salary with review following successful completion of probation
• Specialist training and ongoing professional development
• Opportunity to develop expertise within a niche area of litigation
• Supportive and collaborative working environment
• Clear progression opportunities within the department
• 20 days annual leave plus bank holidays

Working Hours

• Monday to Friday, 9:00am - 5:30pm
• One-hour lunch break
• Full-time, office-based role in Uckfield, East Sussex
• 9-month probation period