Family Associate/Associate Partner To work in Sale and Manchester, presence across both office spaces with the opportunity to work flexibly. Slater Heelis is a leading full-service law firm with a rich history of providing exceptional legal services to clients across the UK. Based in Manchester, we are known for our client-centric approach, professional integrity, and a commitment to excellence. Key Responsibilities Client Management & Casework Manage a caseload of private family law matters, including divorce, financial remedy, cohabitation disputes, pre- and post-nuptial agreements, and private children matters. Maintain excellent communication with clients, providing clear, compassionate, and commercially sound advice throughout. Tailor your approach to meet the individual needs of clients, often in emotionally sensitive or high-conflict situations. Attend court hearings and conferences with counsel where required and represent clients effectively in negotiations and dispute resolution processes. Legal Expertise & Compliance Stay up to date with developments in family law, case law, and procedural rules to ensure the highest standards of legal advice and representation. Ensure all work complies with SRA regulations, Law Society guidelines, and the firm’s internal compliance and risk management procedures. Take responsibility for your Continuing Professional Development (CPD) and proactively seek out training and development opportunities. File & Risk Management Ensure all files are maintained in accordance with firm procedures and quality standards. Progress matters efficiently, with a high level of organisation and attention to detail. Handle matters in a way that minimises risk to both the client and the firm, including appropriate record-keeping and confidentiality protocols. Financial & Performance Management Record chargeable time accurately and in a timely manner. Achieve individual fee-earning targets, billing objectives, and cash flow goals. Support the financial health of the department through timely billing and effective management of client funds and WIP. Business Development & Networking Contribute to the growth of the Family Law department by building strong client relationships and nurturing existing referrer contacts. Take part in marketing and networking activities, including seminars, webinars, and local events, to raise the profile of the firm and department. Look for opportunities to cross-refer work within the firm and identify potential areas for service development. Teamwork & Team Development Support and collaborate with colleagues across the Family team and wider firm. Assist with mentoring junior lawyers, trainees, or paralegals where appropriate, fostering a supportive and inclusive team culture. Attend team meetings and contribute ideas for improving departmental processes, client service, and overall performance. Act as a positive ambassador for the Family department and the wider firm. Maintain high standards of professional conduct in all dealings with clients, colleagues, and external parties. Promote the firm’s values, client-focused ethos, and commitment to excellence. What we are looking for: Empathy and emotional intelligence – a sensitive and thoughtful approach to clients experiencing distressing circumstances. Excellent communication skills – both written and verbal, with the ability to explain complex legal issues clearly and tactfully. Professionalism and discretion – a commitment to confidentiality, integrity, and ethical practice. Commercial awareness – an understanding of the business context of legal services and the importance of client satisfaction. Attention to detail – a meticulous approach to documentation, deadlines, and client matters. Time management and organisation – the ability to prioritise a busy caseload and meet deadlines efficiently. Proactivity and initiative – someone who takes ownership of tasks and drives matters forward independently. Team orientation – a collaborative mindset and willingness to contribute to team success. Resilience and composure – remaining calm and professional under pressure or in emotionally charged situations. Commitment to continuous improvement – a drive to develop professionally and contribute to the evolution of the department. The extras Flexible time off - 27 days annual leave plus 1 day for birthday and 8 Bank holidays. We also offer an additional day annual leave for your 3-, 5- & 10-year anniversary. A competitive pension scheme Income Protection Life Assurance Cycle to work scheme Healthcare cash plan Private Medical Insurance Hybrid Working A benefits portal enabling you to purchase an array of other benefits via salary sacrifice, such as, expanded partnerships with 1000 gyms, the opportunity to buy and sell annual leave, season ticket loans, and travel insurance amongst other attractive perks. Please contact Layla Jackson at Lawfront - layla,jackson@lawfront.com if you wish to apply or would like any further information.