Associate Family Solicitor

Sale and Manchester, presence across both office spaces with the opportunity to work flexibly

The opportunity

Slater Heelis is a leading full-service law firm with a rich history of providing exceptional legal services to clients across the UK. Based in Manchester, we are known for our client-centric approach, professional integrity, and a commitment to excellence.

Key Responsibilities

• Client Management & Casework
• Manage a caseload of private family law matters, including divorce, financial remedy, cohabitation disputes, pre- and post-nuptial agreements, and private children matters.
• Maintain excellent communication with clients, providing clear, compassionate, and commercially sound advice throughout.
• Tailor your approach to meet the individual needs of clients, often in emotionally sensitive or high-conflict situations.
• Attend court hearings and conferences with counsel where required and represent clients effectively in negotiations and dispute resolution processes.

Legal Expertise & Compliance

Stay up to date with developments in family law, case law, and procedural rules to ensure the highest standards of legal advice and representation.

Ensure all work complies with SRA regulations, Law Society guidelines, and the firm internal compliance and risk management procedures.

Take responsibility for your Continuing Professional Development (CPD) and proactively seek out training and development opportunities.

File & Risk Management

Ensure all files are maintained in accordance with firm procedures and quality standards.

Progress matters efficiently, with a high level of organisation and attention to detail.

Handle matters in a way that minimises risk to both the client and the firm, including appropriate record-keeping and confidentiality protocols.

Financial & Performance Management

Record chargeable time accurately and in a timely manner.

Achieve individual fee-earning targets, billing objectives, and cash flow goals.

Support the financial health of the department through timely billing and effective management of client funds and WIP.

Business Development & Networking

Contribute to the growth of the Family Law department by building strong client relationships and nurturing existing referrer contacts.

Take part in marketing and networking activities, including seminars, webinars, and local events, to raise the profile of the firm and department.

Look for opportunities to cross-refer work within the firm and identify potential areas for service development.

Teamwork & Team Development

Support and collaborate with colleagues across the Family team and wider firm.

Assist with mentoring junior lawyers, trainees, or paralegals where appropriate, fostering a supportive and inclusive team culture.

Attend team meetings and contribute ideas for improving departmental processes, client service, and overall performance.

Values and Representation

Act as a positive ambassador for the Family department and the wider firm.

Maintain high standards of professional conduct in all dealings with clients, colleagues, and external parties.

Promote the firm values, client-focused ethos, and commitment to excellence.