Chief Legal Officer
Salary: £80,000 – £120,000
Location: Surrey (office based)
A growing personal injury practice is seeking a Chief Legal Officer to work closely with the owner during a significant period of development and modernisation. This position suits someone experienced in managing legal environments, comfortable leading a team of motivated individuals, and confident supporting a forward-thinking owner focused on growth and operational excellence.
Key Responsibilities
• Advise on legal and governance matters affecting the business
• Lead legal strategy, risk management and compliance in conjunction with the owner and COLP
• Oversee trial performance, attend court and manage counsel
• Support fee earners in achieving targets through guidance, training and structured management
• Manage a developing team of up to 50 staff, including solicitors
Practice Management
• Review and manage tasks typically undertaken by solicitors across the practice
• Assess and manage litigation risk, including prospects of success, limitation and disbursement exposure
• Review liability-denied cases pre-issue to determine suitability for progression to court
• Oversee paralegals on:
• Submission of CNFs/Letters of Claim
• Reviewing liability denials
• Obtaining medical records
• Instructing medical experts
Requirements
• 5 years’ PQE as a Solicitor or Barrister in personal injury or a related field
• Strong knowledge of the Civil Procedure Rules and Pre-Action Protocols
• Able to run personal injury matters with minimal supervision
• Confident adopting technology and AI in case management systems; development experience beneficial but not essential
For more information or a discreet conversation, contact: rio@douglas-scott.co.uk