Overview
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
Essential Skills & Experience
* Qualified solicitor in England & Wales with 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.
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