Family Law Solicitor

Job Title: Family Law Solicitor (Legal Aid)

Location: Poole, Dorset

Experience: Up to 2 years PQE

Make a Difference. Join a Values-Driven Team

Are you a solicitor who believes justice shouldn't have a price tag?

You didn't spend years qualifying to argue over clauses in a corporate merger. You did it because you believe in fairness, and you know that for many people, access to justice is a luxury they can't afford. You're a fighter, an advocate, and you're looking for a job that leaves you feeling fulfilled, not just professionally occupied.

If this sounds like you, we have a mission for you.

Who We Are

We are Jacobs and Reeves, a long-established Dorset law firm. More importantly, we are the only firm in Poole providing Legal Aid for family law. We are the last line of defence for victims of domestic abuse, for children at risk, and for families facing their toughest moments. We are a small, dedicated, ethics-driven team, and our work matters.

Job Summary

This isn't a back-office role. You will be on the frontline from day one, managing your own caseload and making a direct impact. Your key responsibilities will be to:

• Provide expert legal advice to vulnerable clients on matters including domestic violence, child arrangements, and care proceedings.
• Be their voice: draft the documents that keep them safe and represent them in court when they cannot speak for themselves.
• Manage cases from initial instruction through to conclusion, navigating complex legal and emotional landscapes.
• Work with social services, the courts, and other agencies to achieve the best possible outcomes for families and children.
• Uphold the highest standards of client care for people who need it most.

Who you are

• A qualified Solicitor with up to 2 years PQE in family law.
• You understand the Legal Aid Agency's labyrinthine rules or are at least brave enough to learn them.
• You possess a rare combination of cast-iron resilience and genuine empathy.
• You believe that a person's postcode or income should not determine their access to justice.
• You are allergic to corporate jargon and would rather be in a courtroom than a boardroom.

What we offer

• A small, supportive team where your voice matters.
• Opportunities to grow professionally while doing meaningful work.
• Experience that will truly enrich your career and professional development.
• Social events, including our summer BBQ and Christmas party, fostering a friendly and inclusive team culture.
• Engagement with the local community and charitable initiatives, with opportunities to participate in challenges such as charity hikes or races.
• Collaboration across departments: you will work closely with several experienced and qualified solicitors from our sister firm, Rawlins Davy Reeves, sharing the same office and expertise.
• Free on-site parking.
• Poole's beautiful coastal location is a bonus, offering a short walk to the beach, cafes, and outdoor activities to enjoy in your downtime.

The Nitty Gritty

• Role: Full-time, permanent Family Law Solicitor.
• Experience: NQ to 2 years PQE.

How to Apply

If you'd rather fight for a family than a FTSE 100 company, we want to hear from you. Send your CV and a cover letter explaining why this mission resonates with you to , quoting reference.

Contact

This firm is authorised and regulated by the Solicitors Regulation Authority, SRA ID 486864