Kennedys is seeking a talented Associate (1–3 PQE) to join its Property, Energy & Construction (PEC) team in Chelmsford. The successful candidate will work on a broad range of contentious construction, property damage, subrogated recovery, and insurance‑related disputes for insurer, corporate, and commercial clients.
This role offers the opportunity to work within a highly regarded insurance and disputes practice, supporting partners and senior lawyers on complex, high‑value matters while developing responsibility for your own caseload.
Key Responsibilities
* Managing a varied caseload of PEC disputes under supervision, including:
o Construction and engineering disputes
o Property damage claims
o Subrogated recoveries
o Coverage‑related disputes
o Contractor and consultant negligence matters
* Advising insurer and commercial clients on liability, quantum, policy response, and litigation strategy.
* Drafting statements of case, witness statements, instructions to experts and counsel, and settlement agreements.
* Handling matters through litigation, adjudication, mediation, and other forms of dispute resolution.
* Reviewing contracts, construction documentation, and technical expert evidence.
* Conducting legal and technical research to support client advice.
* Assisting partners and senior associates on large and complex multi‑party disputes.
* Maintaining effective client relationships through commercially focused and responsive advice.
* Supporting business development initiatives, including client training, seminars, and networking activities.
* Ensuring compliance with court deadlines, procedural rules, and internal risk management processes.
Candidate Profile
Qualified solicitor in England & Wales.
Essential Skills & Experience
* 1–3 years' PQE.
* Experience in construction disputes, insurance litigation, commercial litigation, or property damage matters.
* Strong drafting, analytical, and organisational skills.
* Good understanding of the Civil Procedure Rules and dispute resolution processes.
* Ability to manage multiple matters and work effectively to deadlines.
* Commercially minded with strong client‑facing capability.
* Strong attention to detail and willingness to develop technical expertise.
Desirable Experience
* Experience acting for insurers or within the insurance sector.
* Exposure to adjudication or construction‑related dispute resolution.
* Familiarity with professional negligence and recovery actions.
* Experience working with expert evidence in technical disputes.
Equal Opportunity Statement
Kennedys is an equal opportunities employer and is committed to ensuring our recruitment processes are as inclusive as possible. We expect all employees to be aware of and comply with all relevant policies and procedures within their jurisdiction.
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