Associate Contentious Construction 3+ PQE Bristol or Exeter

Overview

In this role, you will handle a varied, high‑quality caseload of contentious construction disputes across sectors, including energy. You will work with clients from the outset and coordinate with cross‑discipline teams to drive effective dispute resolution. You’ll manage court litigation, adjudication, arbitration and ADR, while also advising on contract management and dispute avoidance. The position offers opportunities to lead high‑value work with significant client impact in a collaborative, development‑driven firm.

Pay / Benefits

• Competitive salary and benefits package
• High quality, complex work for prestigious clients
• Strong career development and progression opportunities
• Supportive and collaborative team environment
• Access to specialist training and knowledge resources
• Opportunities to build your professional network and profile

Responsibilities

• Manage a varied caseload of contentious construction and energy disputes
• Lead court litigation, adjudication, arbitration, mediation and ADR
• Advise on payment issues, delays, defects, and professional negligence
• Advise on contract management and dispute avoidance strategies
• Work across a wide range of construction projects and sectors
• Collaborate with Construction, Real Estate, Corporate, Commercial and Planning teams
• Directly engage with clients from outset and manage day-to-day conduct of disputes
• Take responsibility for high-value, high-quality work with client impact
• Receive ongoing training from a Senior Knowledge Lawyer

Key requirements

• 3+ years’ PQE in contentious construction
• Strong experience in adjudication and court litigation
• Excellent communication, technical, and organisational skills
• Ability to provide clear, commercial, pragmatic advice under pressure
• Experience with JCT and NEC contracts (ideal)
• Exposure to adjudications, arbitrations, and expert determinations
• Strong attention to detail and ability to handle complex matters
• Proven ability to build strong client relationships
• Genuine interest in construction and infrastructure
• Ambition, self-motivation, and enthusiasm for professional development
• Collaborative, team-focused approach

• excellent communication
• team collaboration
• client relationship building
• adjudication
• court litigation
• arbitration

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