Job Description
Senior Associate (Court of Protection Health & Welfare), Readingn Award Winning, National & Top Tier Legal 500 Law Firm
n A fantastic opportunity for a Senior Associate Solicitor to join the specialist Court of Protection team of an award-winning Legal 500 law firm with offices across the UK.
n This is a particularly good opportunity for an experienced practitioner looking to manage a specialised Health & Welfare caseload, take on team leadership responsibilities, and drive business development within a supportive, flexible, and outcome-focused environment.
n The Rolen You will proactively manage a caseload of Court of Protection matters relating to health and welfare while actively supporting the Team Leader and deputising in their absence.n The role offers direct involvement in complex, high-profile matters alongside team management responsibilities, including 1-to-1 monthly meetings, compliance, and contributing to the development of the firm's case management system.n There is also an expectation that you will take a proactive approach to business development, giving you the opportunity to build referral networks, secure work, and raise your profile within the field.
n Your work is likely to include:n • Section 21A and Section 16 applications, along with general COP H&W queriesn • Care funding issues and related public law / Education law mattersn • Acting as a caseworker under the Mental Health Legal Aid Contractn • Direct court representation, advocacy, and instructing Counseln • Financial control, accurate time recording, and prompt billing in line with COP rules and targets
n About Youn The ideal candidate will have:n • Approximately 7+ years’ PQE with extensive experience in complex Court of Protection mattersn • Law Society Mental Health Accreditation (preferred, or a commitment to obtain it)n • Demonstrated ability to coach, mentor, and develop team members to reach their potentialn • A strong understanding of the Mental Health Legal Aid Contract and LAA requirementsn • Excellent communication, teamwork, attention to detail, and initiativen • Confidence in networking, building referral sources, and driving cross-referralsn • A commitment to firm values: Cooperation, Courage, Excellence, Integrity, and Kindness
n The Firmn You will be joining a progressive, nationally recognized practice whose mission is to empower clients to achieve everything from basic needs to their wildest dreams.n The firm offers a flexible, outcome-based working environment rather than a standard 9-to-5 structure. You will be supported with training, shared knowledge, and a non-judgmental atmosphere where teamwork and client confidentiality are paramount.
n Benefits
n The benefits package includes:n • Competitive salary plus firm-wide annual bonus schemen • Flexible, agile working arrangements (35 hours/week)n • 25 days’ holiday (FTE) + 3 days off at Christmas + 5 extra days paid leave every 5 yearsn • Birthday perks: £50 gift card plus a late start or early finishn • Christmas gift card (£50) and seasonal closuren • 4% pension employer contribution (Standard Life) and Life Assurance (3x salary)n • 24/7 Employee Assistance Program, GP helpline, and free annual flu injectionn • Vivup well-being portal, Tastecard app discounts, and Electric Car Salary Sacrifice / Cycle to Work schemes
n Interested? If you are an experienced Court of Protection Solicitor looking for a role where you can lead, shape a department, and balance career growth with true flexibility, this could be an excellent next step.n
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