Newly Qualified Solicitor - Motor Insurance
At Horwich Farrelly we do things differently. We recognise the value of our employees and understand that they set us apart from our competitors. So, if you want to experience what life is like as a lawyer at HF, take a look at our Newly Qualified Solicitor vacancy within our Motor Insurance Department, Southampton.
In this role you will not only be working independently but as part of a successful Motor team. The ideal candidate will be a NQ Solicitor, have previous file handling experience and worked in the insurance/personal injury industry.
The role holder will deal with a mainly litigated small, fast track and multi-track claims case load of files and assist other Fee Earners as and when required.
To ensure that clients are confident that their legal affairs are dealt with in a business-like and competent manner and to ensure the efficient operation of the firm.
The Southampton Motor Team is run by a Team Lead with assistance of a deputy solicitor. As a newly qualified solicitor you would sit in the team as a senior member of the team, assisting to mentor the junior fee earners - of which there is currently 6 (and growing).
What will I be doing?
- To ensure that all cases are dealt with in a compliance with Solicitors' Accounts Rules and Law Society Practice Management Standards.
- File handling own case load of defendant litigated claims ranging up to the multi-track
- Competent at dealing with files on a delegated basis and complying with client SLAs
- Reviewing quantum, valuing general and special damages and finalising case plans including advice as to next steps
- Referring cases for supervision and guidance so as to ensure the correct procedure and process is followed
- Entering into telephone negotiations, liaising with third party solicitors and insurers, own insurer clients and lay clients' and recording the outcome of those approaches
- Drafting documents including, applications, offers, proposed orders, directions etc.
- Attending telephone conferences/applications/court hearings
- Working to Court Deadlines and Managing time in an effective manner using organisational skills and case management system
- Seeing cases through from commencement of proceedings to conclusion whilst dealing with cases in a cost effective matter
- Understand the litigation process and offer solutions to legal problems
- Ensure that all cases are dealt with in compliance with Solicitors' Accounts Rules and Law
- Manage your time effectively; and
- Complete MI and the understanding of SLA's
- Comply with HF practice and procedures.
Other Responsibilities:
- To assist with the efficient running of the office generally.
- Perform other responsibilities assigned by the Management Team as requested.
The existing teams are filled with ambitious professionals working in an engaging and friendly environment. We are a sociable department with lots of team activities to get involved in.
What do I need?
- Be a newly qualified solicitor.
- The successful candidate will have a minimum of 1 years of proven experience of claim handling a litigated caseload preferable a defendant case load.
- Knowledge of the CPR, the SRA Code of Conduct and their application
- Have some knowledge of insurance would be preferable
- Familiarity with medical records would be preferable
- Able to meet/exceed billing target
- Client-centric approach and excellent client care skills
- Excellent organisational skills
- Has a great attention to detail
- Experience of communicating and working with clients
- Has the ability to take initiative and pride in their work; and is flexible with a positive attitude to change, both internally and in the context of clients' business.
- Can work under pressure and to strict time limits
- Able to show initiative, and competency to work freely
- The ability to work autonomously and as part of a team
**What's in it for you?
This is a real chance for you to shine and progress in a successful career in law. We have a strong reputation for developing and nurturing employees and there are many opportunities for progression for you to have a rewarding and prosperous career at HF.
We are not your stereotypical corporate law firm. We offer flexible working and have a relaxed dress code - you can be yourself at work! We offer hybrid working and flexible working hours for all.
We continue to place a firm emphasis on investing in our people and promoting internally, from paying for professional subscriptions to offering learning and development grants for further study, we are always looking to invest and grow our people.
We're always looking to recognise and reward our people for the work they do. Here are just a few of the benefits you will have access to as part of our team:
- 25 days' annual leave (in addition to public holidays), increasing to 30 days with service
- Private healthcare provision
- Company pension scheme
- Enhanced parental leave
- Cycle to Work scheme
- Life insurance and income protection
- Employee Assistance Programme & Digital GP service
- Season ticket loans
- Professional subscriptions paid
- Flu vouchers
- Bonus scheme
- HF Discount Hub
About the Company
Horwich Farrelly is one of the UK's leading providers of legal and handling services to the general insurance sector. Established in 1969, the firm currently provides legal services to 12 of the UK's 20 largest motor insurers in specialist areas such as counter fraud, large & complex injury, motor, casualty, aviation, recoveries, costs and credit hire. Horwich Farrelly has recently expanded into the provision of commercial legal services and litigation, providing solutions to a wide range of corporate and SME clients.