Vacancies

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Vacancies

For your next move

At Switalskis, we’re always on the lookout for dedicated and passionate individuals who are keen on making a significant impact in the legal sector. Our firm thrives on diversity of thought, a wealth of expertise and a shared commitment to providing exceptional legal services.

Explore the various career opportunities available below and take a step towards a rewarding and fulfilling career with us. If you can’t find a role that suits you, please feel free to get in touch - we’re always interested in hearing from talented and ambitious people.

Senior Associate & Deputy Head of New Build ConveyancingView details

ABOUT US

Switalskis is an award-winning law firm listed in The Sunday Times Best Places to Work 2024.

Established in 1993 by Stephen Switalski, we began with a focus on child care law and criminal law from a single office in Wakefield.  Since then we’ve expanded to 11 locations employing approximately 400 people who provide a wide array of specialist legal services.

A career at Switalskis means being part of a firm that cares and is here for you. We’re dynamic and progressive, and we never stand still. Last year we were crowned Large Firm of the Year at The Yorkshire Legal Awards and named in the top 50 fastest growing companies in Yorkshire in the Yorkshire Growth Index.

THE ROLE

A Senior Associate & Deputy Head of Department will play a pivotal role in the strategic expansion of the New Build Conveyancing team, maintaining a busy caseload, providing day to day team management, and strategic support to the department head.  The role will be predominantly office based in our brand-new Leeds City Centre office with the possibility of some flexible/remote working options, subject to the needs of the department

WHAT YOU'LL BE DOING 

  • Managing a caseload of new build purchase transactions (and related sales).
  • Offering technical guidance and support to your team, particularly junior colleagues.
  • Supporting the Head of Department in the management of central housing development documentation and information.
  • Supporting the Head of Department in the business development aspect of the department.


WHAT YOU'LL BRING

  • Conveyancing expertise: You’ll need several years of experience in conveyancing, with strong technical ability and a focus on new build transactions.
  • Leadership skills: You’ve got the interpersonal and managerial know-how to manage a team and support junior staff.
  • Client-focused: You understand the importance of delivering market-leading client care.
  • Referrer Relationships: You understand the importance of referrer relationships and have experience in managing them, whilst understanding the importance of integrity and independence.
  • Problem-solver: You can think on your feet and work well under pressure, especially during busy periods.
  • Detail-oriented: Accuracy is key in this role, and your eagle eye will ensure nothing is missed.

Click the link below to submit your application and a member of the team will be in touch. For any questions please contact

Recruitment@Switalskis.com

Apply online
Junior Costs Draftsperson / LawyerView details

ABOUT US 

Switalskis is an award-winning law firm listed in The Sunday Times Best Places to Work 2024.

Established in 1993 by Stephen Switalski, we began with a focus on child care law and criminal law from a single office in Wakefield.  Since then we’ve expanded to 11 locations employing approximately 400 people who provide a wide array of specialist legal services.

A career at Switalskis means being part of a firm that cares and is here for you. We’re dynamic and progressive, and we never stand still. Last year we were crowned Large Firm of the Year at The Yorkshire Legal Awards and named in the top 50 fastest growing companies in Yorkshire in the Yorkshire Growth Index.

THE ROLE 

The role would be suitable for someone with up to 5 years’ experience of working in a legal costs environment and preparing Bills of Costs for detailed assessment.

Applicants who have no experience in legal costs, but have a keen interest and desire to create a career in this area are also welcome to apply and full training and support will be provided.

The role will be varied, with opportunities for learning, development and progression, as well as funded professional qualifications.

Key Responsibilities:

  • Prepare Schedules and Bills of Costs, ensuring accuracy and compliance with the Civil Procedure rule. 
  • Prepare Costs Budgets and manage the costs management process, with opportunities for advocacy if of interest. Full training will be provided. 
  • Negotiate costs settlements effectively, representing the firm's and clients' best interests.
  • Provide technical advice on costs recovery, ensuring clients receive the guidance they need.
  • Prepare replies to points of dispute and handle court assessments where appropriate
  • Address fixed costs arguments and provide advice on fixed costs issues

This role is offered on a Hybrid basis and you can be based from any of our 10 offices across Yorkshire.  Weekly travel to our Doncaster office will be required for training purposes. 

What you'll bring

As a Junior Cost Lawyer/Draftsperson, we’ll want you to demonstrate the following:

  • A positive attitude with a desire to improve operational practices and assist the team to provide a first class service
  • An interest in the law and/ or costs law specifically
  • Good written skills
  • Good numeracy skills
  • Good organisational skills
  • Ability to research, analyse and interpret information and case law

  • Adaptable and flexible to changing situations and ever evolving law


click the link below to submit your application and a member of the team will be in touch. For any questions please contact

Recruitment@Switalskis.com

Apply online
Costs Draftsperson / LawyerView details

ABOUT US 

Switalskis is an award-winning law firm listed in The Sunday Times Best Places to Work 2024.

Established in 1993 by Stephen Switalski, we began with a focus on child care law and criminal law from a single office in Wakefield.  Since then we’ve expanded to 11 locations employing approximately 400 people who provide a wide array of specialist legal services.

A career at Switalskis means being part of a firm that cares and is here for you. We’re dynamic and progressive, and we never stand still. Last year we were crowned Large Firm of the Year at The Yorkshire Legal Awards and named in the top 50 fastest growing companies in Yorkshire in the Yorkshire Growth Index.

THE ROLE 

The role would be suitable for someone with over 5 years’ experience of working in a legal costs environment and preparing Bills of Costs for detailed assessments, dealing with the detailed assessment process, preparing costs budgets and dealing with costs management.

The role will be varied, with opportunities for further development and progression, as well as funded professional qualifications for those who are not already qualified as Costs Lawyers.

Key Responsibilities:

  • Prepare Schedules and Bills of Costs, ensuring accuracy and compliance with the civil procedure rules
  • Negotiate costs settlements.
  • Provide technical advice on costs recovery.
  • Prepare replies to points of dispute and handle the detailed assessment process.
  • Address fixed costs arguments and provide advice on fixed costs issues.
  • Budget preparation and costs management
  • Advocacy (optional)
  • Assisting the Head of Costs with operational matters for best practice
  • Providing training and support to junior team members
  • Be involved in the department’s internal training provisions, either front facing or background assistance.
  • Assisting with gathering and interpretation of management information

This role is offered on a Hybrid basis and you can be based from any of our 10 offices across Yorkshire. Please note occasional travel for team meetings may be required from time to time. 

What you'll bring

As an experienced Cost Lawyer/Draftsperson, we’ll want you to demonstrate the following:

  • Experience in Bill drafting and Detailed Assessment processes.
  • Experience in Budget preparation and the costs management process.
  • Good written & numerical skills
  • Good organisational skills & ability to work under pressure at times.
  • Ability to communicate advice on complex issues in a clear and reasoned way to colleagues throughout the firm.
  • Ability to research, analyse and interpret information and case law and develop technical arguments
  • Ability and desire to support junior team members in their development

  • Good IT skills including the use of Costsmaster or other billing software with transferable skills


click the link below to submit your application and a member of the team will be in touch. For any questions please contact

Recruitment@Switalskis.com

Apply online
Legal Assistant - Costs (Costs Coordinator ) View details

ABOUT US 

Switalskis is an award-winning law firm listed in The Sunday Times Best Places to Work 2024.

Established in 1993 by Stephen Switalski, we began with a focus on child care law and criminal law from a single office in Wakefield.  Since then we’ve expanded to 11 locations employing approximately 400 people who provide a wide array of specialist legal services.

A career at Switalskis means being part of a firm that cares and is here for you. We’re dynamic and progressive, and we never stand still. Last year we were crowned Large Firm of the Year at The Yorkshire Legal Awards and named in the top 50 fastest growing companies in Yorkshire in the Yorkshire Growth Index.

THE ROLE 

In this role, you will work closely with our in-house costs team, providing vital support to clinical negligence Fee Earners with the administration of costs on clinical negligence files. You'll be a key player in the team, helping to manage and streamline costs processes and will carry out the following responsibilities:

Key Responsibilities:

  • Costs Management: Calculate figures for payments on account of costs and coordinate with fee earners and the Head of Funding.
  • Costs Recovery: Assist fee earners with calculating fixed costs and provide support in recovering fixed costs and disbursements from the paying party.
  • Third-Party Payments: Manage payments to third parties, such as medical experts, agencies, and barristers, ensuring accuracy and timeliness.
  • File Management: Oversee file closing and handle write-offs to maintain an organised and efficient system.
  • Insurance Claims: Manage claims on insurance policies, including assisting with negotiations on disputed claims, to ensure effective resolution.
  • Data Collation: Gather data on claims made to insurers as required, ensuring accurate reporting and record-keeping.
  • Billing: Handle billing of costs upon receipt to ensure smooth financial processes.
  • Process Improvement: Contribute to the continuous improvement of the costs administration processes within the Clinical Negligence department.
  • Additional Duties: Undertake any other duties as required by the department to support the team's success

This role is offered on a Hybrid basis and you can be based from any of our 10 offices across Yorkshire. Please note weekly travel to Barnsley will be required for training/team meetings.  

What you'll bring

As a Cost Coordinator in the Clinical Negligence team, we’ll want you to demonstrate the following:

  • Previous experience within a Costs role (or similar)
  • Self-motivated
  • Numerate & organised with previous experience of using Microsoft packages
  • Excellent attention to detail
  • The ability to communicate well with stakeholders.


click the link below to submit your application and a member of the team will be in touch. For any questions please contact

Recruitment@Switalskis.com

Apply online
Join Our Talent Network - Register your interestView details

Join Our Talent Network!

Switalskis is an award-winning law firm listed in The Sunday Times Best Places to Work 2024.

Established in 1993 by Stephen Switalski, we began with a focus on child care law and criminal law from a single office in Wakefield.  Since then we’ve expanded to 11 locations employing approximately 400 people who provide a wide array of specialist legal services.

A career at Switalskis means being part of a firm that cares and is here for you. We’re dynamic and progressive, and we never stand still. Last year we were crowned Large Firm of the Year at The Yorkshire Legal Awards and named in the top 50 fastest growing companies in Yorkshire in the Yorkshire Growth Index.

We believe that great talent is the foundation of our success. While we may not have a specific vacancy that suits your skills and experience right now, we are always on the lookout for exceptional individuals who can contribute to our dynamic team.

If you're passionate and eager to make a difference, we invite you to register your interest by submitting your application. Whether you’re an experienced Solicitor, just starting out as a trainee or paralegal or keen to join one of our support functions in HR or IT, we want to hear from you!

Why Join Us?

  • Be part of a forward-thinking organisation that values innovation and creativity.
  • Explore a collaborative work environment that fosters professional growth and development.
  • Contribute to exciting projects that make an impact

Our team reviews all applications, and if your profile matches any of our current or future opportunities, a member of our team will be in touch.

Thank you for considering Switalskis as your next career move. We appreciate your interest in joining our talent network!

Apply online
Work Experience 2025 - Register your interest! View details


Kickstart Your Legal Career with Our Structured Work Experience Programme!

 Our 2024 intake is now complete and we will be shortlisting for our next intake in Spring 2025. By completing this application form you are registering your interest to join our next work experience programme intake due to take place in spring/summer 2025. 


Are you a law student or someone interested in a career in the legal sector? Seize this unique opportunity to gain invaluable experience with our one-week structured work experience programme.

Next Intake:  Spring/Summer 2025

Location: Leeds City Centre

Duration: 1 Week

Eligibility: 18+


Join us for an immersive week designed to provide you with:

  • Hands-On Experience: Work alongside experienced legal professionals in a dynamic law firm.
  • Career Insights: Gain a deep understanding of the legal sector and what it takes to succeed.
  • Networking Opportunities: Build connections with industry experts and peers.

Secure your spot and take the first step towards a successful legal career. Applications are open now!


Apply Today!


For any work experience related questions please contact workexpapplications@switalsks.com

Apply online
Senior Solicitor - Clinical Negligence - LeedsView details

ABOUT US 

Switalskis is an award-winning law firm listed in The Sunday Times Best Places to Work 2024.

Established in 1993 by Stephen Switalski, we began with a focus on child care law and criminal law from a single office in Wakefield.  Since then we’ve expanded to 11 locations employing approximately 400 people who provide a wide array of specialist legal services.

A career at Switalskis means being part of a firm that cares and is here for you. We’re dynamic and progressive, and we never stand still. Last year we were crowned Large Firm of the Year at The Yorkshire Legal Awards and named in the top 50 fastest growing companies in Yorkshire in the Yorkshire Growth Index.

What Will the role involve?

Are you ready to elevate your career, leading complex and high-profile claimant clinical negligence cases in a supportive, collaborative environment? We’re offering an exciting opportunity for a Clinical Negligence Solicitor (5+ years PQE) to join our reputable claimant-focused team based in Leeds city centre. This role offers the perfect blend of hybrid working flexibility and the energy of working in our brand-new, modern offices.

The role will involve working closely with the Director, assisting them on complex and high value clinical negligence claims, while also maintaining a caseload of approximately 40 cases of lower complexity and value, across all types of clinical negligence work.

You are expected to undertake all aspects of a clinical negligence claim, from initial case planning through investigation and obtaining evidence, the pre-action protocol, issuing and serving of proceedings, and litigation all the way to trial where necessary. 

Experience

  • Experienced Litigator: You will bring 5+ years’ PQE in claimant clinical negligence, with a solid track record of managing complex, sensitive cases. You should be comfortable taking claims from initial instruction through to resolution, with a proven ability to deliver results.

  • Client-Focused Advocate: A passion for supporting individuals affected by medical negligence is essential. You’ll have the empathy, patience, and professionalism required to navigate clients through often difficult and emotional journeys.

  • Strategic Thinker: Your experience will include developing effective legal strategies to achieve positive outcomes, whether through settlement negotiations or litigation.

  • Leadership & Mentorship: As a senior solicitor, you’ll naturally lead by example, providing guidance and support to junior team members, while playing an active role in the firm’s growth.

  • Innovation & Adaptability: In a constantly evolving legal landscape, you’ll stay ahead of developments in clinical negligence law, applying creative thinking to solve challenging cases.

 

If you're a dynamic, ambitious solicitor ready to make an impact in a senior clinical negligence role, we’d love to hear from you.

 

Click the link below to submit your application and a member of the team will be in touch. For any questions please contact

Recruitment@Switalskis.com

Apply online

Experienced Hires

At Switalskis, we’re dedicated to expanding our team by welcoming seasoned professionals who are eager to contribute their expertise in a collaborative setting.

QSP

Join our Qualifying Solicitors Programme to embark on a rewarding legal career at one of the UK’s top firms.

Work experience

Work experience at Switalskis will provide you with a glimpse into the legal world if you’re looking for a career in law.

Apprenticeships

Further information about our solicitor and graduate apprenticeships will be available in the spring.

Advice for recruitment agencies

The dedicated talent management team at Switalskis is directly responsible for attracting top-tier talent to the business. We have established a preferred supplier list of recruiters and agencies to ensure a seamless recruitment process. For this reason, unsolicited CVs are discouraged. If you are interested in being considered for our preferred supplier list, please contact our talent management team today.

Why Switalskis?

We provide a pathway to a fulfilling career in the legal sector. As a law firm with a rich legacy of legal practice, working with us means being part of a firm known for its integrity, excellence and commitment to its clients. Our efforts have been recognised as we were named in the top 50 fastest growing companies in Yorkshire in TheBusinessDesk.com’s Yorkshire Growth Index 2023 and we won ‘Large Firm of the Year’ at the Yorkshire Legal Awards 2023.

Through a range of training programmes, workships and seminars, we invest in the continuous growth and development of our team. To find out more about career opportunities at Switalskis, take a look at our Career Development guide.

Our firm encompasses a variety of legal practice areas, providing an environment to explore, learn and specialise in your field of interest. Our open-door policy promotes a collaborative and supportive work environment that encourages interaction and learning throughout the firm.

The culture at Switalskis encourages creativity and continuous improvement in delivering exceptional legal services. We embrace innovation and inclusivity, and value the diverse perspective and experience that our team brings to the table. We also encourage our team to engage in various community outreach initiatives, aligning our professional practice with positive societal impact.

Your decision to join Switalskis is a step towards a career filled with opportunities for growth, learning and making a meaningful impact in the legal profession. Our firm is not just a place to work; it’s a community where your legal career can thrive amidst a culture of excellence and mutual respect.

Life at Switalskis

Find out what our employees have to say about their experience at Switalskis:

Photo of Laura Cates

I enjoy hybrid working. When I am in the office, I use this as time to speak with colleagues about their thoughts on cases and anything relevant within the news for example, a judgment. When I am at home, I use this time to complete detailed pieces of work without the distraction of the office. I’m also able to get out on a lunch time to walk my Sproodle!

Laura CatesAssociate Solicitor
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photo of Emily Chan

I’ve always known I wanted to help people but ruled out several professions before deciding on law. The first seat of my training contract was in commercial property, working between the Leeds and Knaresborough offices. I found the work very interesting especially drafting documents. I recently moved to the clinical negligence team, for my second seat, which I am finding both stimulating and challenging. Since joining, my integration into Switalskis has been seamless as everyone has been very welcoming and inviting.  I think it helped that I often brought in brownies and cakes that I’d baked!

Emily ChanTrainee Solicitor
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photo of Becky Whitfield

In 2012 I joined the Costs Team and in 2014 started studying the ACL Costs Lawyer course. I qualified as a Costs Lawyer in August 2017 and in 2023 I was promoted to Associate Costs Lawyer. I've not worked anywhere prior to Atherton Godfrey who integrated with Switalskis in December 2022, my entire career since the 90s has been at the same firm.

Becky WhitfieldAssociate Costs Lawyer
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photo of Fiona Haigh

I wasn’t sure what I wanted to do when I left school. I thought I wanted to be a hairdresser, and this is what I ended up doing, but if I’m honest I never really felt like it was for me. I worked hard and achieved my qualifications but never felt content. However, I always had an interest in the legal profession due to personal circumstances and I enrolled on an access course when I was 26 and here, I am!

Fiona HaighTrainee Solicitor
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Photo of Hannah Cazaly

I start my day by responding to any emails. I then check my task list and I complete any urgent tasks first. I complete records reviews, draft letters of instruction to experts and review expert reports. I also have cases that are in litigation where deadlines need to be adhered to and documents must be served. I also liaise with clients on a daily basis providing updates and taking instructions.

Hannah CazalyAssociate Solicitor
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photo of Rhiannon Moore

There’s not a typical day in the Court of Protection, and that’s what I love most about it. Each client is so different and so we need to be able to take each client as they come to try and work out what will be best for them and how best to achieve it. I love travelling and meeting the clients but there is also lot of time in the office - preparing advice, drafting documents, and attending court, as many of our hearings are still being heard remotely.

Rhiannon MooreSolicitor Apprentice
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Got a question?

If you have any questions about our vacancies, please don’t hesitate to contact us. Call us on 0800 138 0458 or send us a message and we’ll be happy to help.

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