Junior / NQ Solicitor

Job Specification

Position: Junior/NQ Solicitor or CILEX Lawyer with litigation practice rights - Landlord & Tenant Litigation DepartmentOrganisation: Ashley Taylors LegalLocation: Uckfield, East SussexContract: Full-time, Office-based

About Us

Ashley Taylors Legal's Landlord & Tenant Litigation Department advises and represents clients in a range of landlord and tenant disputes. While much of our work involves standard and accelerated possession proceedings, we also handle defended matters and provide guidance on landlord and tenant legislation. Our clients range from private landlords with a single property to large managing agents and insurance companies.

Role Overview

We are seeking a Junior or Newly Qualified Solicitor or CILEX Lawyer with litigation practice rights to join our busy Landlord & Tenant Litigation Department. You will work closely with fee earners, under the supervision of a senior solicitor, and be supported by case handlers/paralegals. This is an excellent opportunity to develop your litigation skills in a supportive environment while handling a variety of contentious and defended landlord and tenant matters.

Key Responsibilities

(not exhaustive)

• Undertake fee-earning work with supervision and contribute to the work of the department.
• Develop technical expertise to manage defended and complex cases, particularly fast track and multitrack matters.
• Draft legal documents and comply with court directions and orders.
• Progress towards independently managing smaller matters while providing support on larger cases.
• Correspond with clients, defendants, courts, solicitors, and managing agents.
• Keep clients updated on case progress.
• Issue possession claims through the Possession Claims Online system.
• Prepare paper applications for court, including manual possession, accelerated, and warrant applications.
• Draft notices seeking possession.
• Prepare instructions for advocates and counsel.
• Maintain and update case management spreadsheets.

Skills & Experience Required

• Good knowledge of landlord and tenant law (training available for those without specific L&T experience).
• Basic understanding of the Civil Procedure Rules and litigation processes.
• Strong IT skills.
• Highly organised and able to work on own initiative.
• Confident working in a small team and speaking with clients/third parties over the phone.
• Ability to prioritise tasks and work effectively under pressure.
• Strong attention to detail and accuracy.
• Committed to maintaining confidentiality.
• Adaptable, creative, and eager to learn.

Contract Details

• Hours: 9:00am - 5:30pm (Mon-Fri, including 1-hour lunch break). Office closes at 5:00pm.
• Location: Office-based in Uckfield, East Sussex.
• Probation: 9 months.
• Salary: Competitive, dependent on qualifications and experience (with an increase after probation).
• Holidays: 20 days + bank holidays (pro-rata).