Associate - Property Litigation (12-month FTC)

These are exciting times at ARAG Law, as we are experiencing positive business change and growth across our Litigation teams. We now have a 12-month fixed-term contract opportunity for a Property Litigation Associate in our central Bristol office.

About the team:

Our Property Litigation team is part of the larger Complex Litigation function. We are a skilled, friendly, and supportive team specializing in high-quality property litigation work from the ARAG Legal Expenses Insurance Group.

About the role:

As a Property Litigation Associate, you will handle a variety of property litigation matters, including property damage, trespass, and nuisance issues.

You will manage your own caseload, contributing to a culture of effective case handling to ensure high standards of service, compliance with regulatory and company processes, and consideration of costs.

This role offers an established pipeline of work and opportunities to enhance your professional profile. You will be part of a team with extensive experience, excellent support, and growth opportunities.

Key responsibilities include:

• Managing your own caseload of Property Litigation cases for various clients.
• Resolving disputes through courts or alternative dispute resolution methods like mediation.
• Delivering work with risk management and client service excellence in mind.
• Meeting annual billing targets and KPIs.
• Supervising and managing junior team members to help them meet their targets and manage risks.

This is a 12-month fixed-term contract with hybrid working arrangements, requiring a minimum of 2 days per week in our Bristol office, located 5 minutes from Bristol Temple Meads station.

Full-time hours are preferred, but part-time options (minimum 4 days/week or equivalent) may be considered based on experience.

This role requires a thorough understanding of the Civil Procedure Rules, litigating cases from inception to trial, and experience in resolving cases via mediation or ADR (essential). Experience in property-specific litigation is advantageous but not essential, as full training will be provided. Strong verbal and written communication skills, attention to detail, and the ability to work independently are essential. Confidence, approachability, and a customer service focus are also important. Supervisory experience is beneficial, as the role may involve overseeing at least one other solicitor or paralegal.

Additional key requirements include:

• Good understanding of procedural matters in litigation, including protocols and civil procedure.
• High levels of client care and ability to explain complex legal issues clearly.
• Practical legal experience in county court litigation, injunctive relief, mediation, and ADR.
• Excellent interpersonal and stakeholder management skills.
• Experience with property disputes (damage, trespass, nuisance) is desirable.
• Knowledge of legal expenses insurance disputes and insurance cover interpretation is advantageous.

Due to the contentious nature of disputes, resilience and empathy are important qualities.

We offer flexible working, competitive remuneration, and a benefits package including:

• 26 days holiday, with an option to buy up to 5 additional days
• Company pension scheme with optional increased contributions
• Group income protection and legal protection
• European motor and home emergency assistance
• Health cash plan and exclusive retail discounts
• Optional participation in our Sports & Social Club

If you believe you are a good fit and can demonstrate transferable experience, we encourage you to apply, even if you do not meet all listed criteria.