Job Description Dispute Resolution Solicitor | Low Billable Targets & Genuine Work-Life Balance Salary: £55,000 - £75,000 Location: Chelmsford Area Are you an ambitious Dispute Resolution Solicitor seeking a role where you can develop your expertise without the pressure of excessive billing targets? Our client, a well-established and rapidly expanding law firm within a prestigious national legal group, is looking for a talented solicitor to join their thriving Dispute Resolution team in the Chelmsford Area Since joining a leading legal group in 2021, our client has benefited from significant investment and ambitious growth plans whilst maintaining a refreshingly balanced approach to legal practice. This is your opportunity to work on high-quality, complex matters whilst enjoying a supportive culture that genuinely values your wellbeing and career development. About the Opportunity This is a rare chance to join a forward-thinking firm that combines the resources and ambition of a national group with the collegiate atmosphere and comparatively low billable targets that allow you to focus on quality work and professional development. You'll be part of a successful, collaborative team handling sophisticated disputes across multiple practice areas. Key benefits of this role: Competitive salary of £55,000 - £75,000 (dependent on experience) Low billable hour targets compared to market standards Genuine work-life balance with flexible working arrangements Significant investment in training, development and career progression State-of-the-art case management systems for efficient workflow Flexible benefits package tailored to your individual needs and preferences The Role: What You'll Be Doing As a Dispute Resolution Solicitor, you will manage your own diverse caseload of contentious civil and commercial matters, including: Property and construction disputes Contentious probate matters Cohabitee disputes Debt recovery proceedings Professional negligence claims Partnership, director and shareholder disputes Your responsibilities will include: Managing your own caseload from instruction through to resolution Providing strategic, commercially-focused advice to achieve optimal client outcomes Supporting senior team members on complex, high-value disputes Gaining early exposure to sophisticated transactions and matters Actively engaging in business development to expand your network and the firm's client base Building and maintaining strong client relationships through exceptional service delivery About You: Essential Requirements We're seeking an experienced and ambitious solicitor who can hit the ground running: Essential qualifications and experience: Qualified Solicitor in England & Wales 5 years PQE in Dispute Resolution (flexibility for exceptional candidates) Proven experience in a reputable law firm handling contentious civil and commercial matters Strong technical knowledge across multiple dispute resolution areas Demonstrated ability to manage own caseload independently and efficiently Key skills and attributes: Excellent client care skills with the ability to build lasting relationships Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities Proactive and self-motivated approach to work Commercial awareness and business development acumen Outstanding written and verbal communication skills Collaborative team player who thrives in a supportive environment What's On Offer: Your Benefits Package Our client is committed to rewarding and supporting their team with a comprehensive benefits package: Competitive salary of £55,000 - £75,000 (commensurate with experience) Flexible benefits programme allowing you to tailor benefits to your needs Low billable hour targets enabling genuine work-life balance Hybrid working arrangements with flexibility Excellent ongoing training and mentoring to support your career goals Clear career progression pathways within a growing firm State-of-the-art technology and case management systems Supportive, collaborative culture across all offices Access to resources and opportunities within a prestigious national legal group Location & Working Arrangements Location: Chemlsford Area Working arrangements: Hybrid working available with office-based collaboration Ready to Take the Next Step? If you're an experienced Dispute Resolution Solicitor looking to accelerate your career in a firm that genuinely values excellence, balance, and ambition, we want to hear from you. To apply or discuss this opportunity in confidence, please contact: Mara Watson Legal Recruitment Consultant Hawthorne-Finch Talent Solutions Email: m.watson@h-fts.com Please submit your CV and a brief cover letter outlining your suitability for the role. All applications will be treated in the strictest confidence. Hawthorne-Finch Talent Solutions is committed to protecting your privacy and will not share your details with any third party without your explicit consent.