Clinical Negligence Solicitor (Claimant) / Medical Negligence Lawyer Location: Manchester (Eccles) · Contract: Full-time · Hybrid & Flexi-time Reports to: Head of PI · Salary: £45,000–£55,000 DOE bonuses, TOIL & benefits Level: Experience consistent with 3–5 years’ PQE (guide only; CILEX/equivalent experience considered) About Optimal Solicitors We’re a PI-led firm with a 4.9★ reputation (2,100 client reviews). Our clinical/medical negligence enquiries are steadily increasing, and—alongside an existing caseload and a dedicated fee earner—we’re adding a solicitor to strengthen capacity. You’ll join a lean, hands-on team where patients and families stay at the centre of every decision and where proportionality and outcomes matter. The role (what you’ll own) Merits triage: Rapidly vet new enquiries across severities (delay/misdiagnosis, surgical error, obstetrics/birth injury, fatal claims); make early go/no-go calls. Proportionate litigation: Set clear strategy on breach/causation/quantum; control disbursements; use costs budgeting/Precedent H, CPR and Part 36 to keep cases lean and profitable. Evidence & advocacy: Draft LoC/witness statements/Part 35 Qs; prepare bundles; brief Counsel; run negotiations/telephone hearings and ADR. Client care that matches our values: Combine empathy and clear communication with SLA-led updates so clients feel heard, informed and supported throughout. Quality & MI: Keep immaculate file discipline in Proclaim; record accurate MI; forecast fees; minimise write-offs; feed learnings into team training. Collaboration & support: Work closely with (and be developed by) the Head of PI; coach juniors where helpful; contribute to content/insights with Marketing. What you’ll bring Solid claimant Clinical/Medical Negligence experience running your own litigated caseload. A forensic eye for detail with real commercial awareness—you know when to push value and when to rein in spend. Excellent drafting, negotiation and expert management; confident with costs control Calm, empathetic communicator who builds trust quickly and keeps momentum without overspend. How we work (hybrid) In-office for induction/systems coaching; Team Days 1–2/month, flexible hours 08:00–18:00 (core 10:00–16:00). Why join us £45,000–£55,000 DOE recognition bonuses, TOIL, regular socials 31 days’ leave incl. bank holidays birthday off (option to buy 5) Length-of-service awards, clear development paths A values-driven team where client care and commercial discipline both matter Blend empathy with commercial discipline and help shape our growing Clin Neg offering. Send your CV - let’s talk. Successful candidates are subject to security checks, including references and RTW (right to work in the UK). Please advise if you require any adjustments to support you through the recruitment process.