Career Opportunities at Switalskis

Career Opportunities at Switalskis

For your career

At Switalskis, we’re driven by a profound commitment to not only provide the highest quality of legal services but to create a harmonious and enriching workspace for our team. Our ethos is deeply rooted in fostering a culture that prioritises a healthy work-life balance, making Switalskis not just a place to work, but a community in which to grow, learn and thrive.

Our primary goal is to ensure that the work environment is supportive and rewarding. We champion a culture where our colleagues feel valued, supported and well-compensated for their efforts.

We celebrate diversity and are steadfast in our commitment to promoting equality and inclusion at every level within our firm. Our reputable stance on these values not only enriches our work culture but is reflected in the legal services we provide and the profound nature of the cases we choose to take.

Joining Switalskis is a step towards a career filled with endless learning and development opportunities. We’re keen to nurture your growth and make sure you enjoy what you do and evolve professionally during your time with us.

Our vacancies

Explore career opportunities at Switalskis and take a step towards a rewarding and fulfilling career with us.

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

Join our Graduate Apprenticeship Programme to embark on a rewarding legal career at one of the UK's top firms.

Latest vacancies

For your next move

Legal Secretary - Court of Protection (Wakefield or Leeds)View details

ABOUT US 

Switalskis is an award-winning law firm listed in The Sunday Times Best Places to Work 2024 & 2025.

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

We are looking for a motivated and professional Part-Time Legal Secretary to join our Court of Protection (Health & Welfare) team. The role involves providing essential administrative and secretarial support to fee earners, ensuring the smooth running of the department and helping us deliver excellent service to our clients.

Key Responsibilities

  • Preparing, formatting, and proofreading legal documents and correspondence
  • Managing diaries, scheduling meetings, and organising appointments
  • Handling incoming calls, emails, and correspondence with professionalism and empathy
  • Maintaining and updating client files and case records
  • Supporting compliance processes and ensuring deadlines are met
  • Providing general administrative support to the team


Skills and Experience

  • Previous experience as a legal secretary or similar (Court of Protection experience desirable, but not essential)
  • Strong typing and IT skills, including proficiency in Microsoft Office
  • Excellent organisational skills and attention to detail
  • Ability to manage multiple tasks and prioritise effectively
  • Professional communication skills, with a supportive and compassionate manner


Working Arrangements

  • Part-time position with flexible working hours considered
  • Supportive and friendly working environment 
  • Opportunities for ongoing training and professional development


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 Lawyer / Costs Draftsperson - Flexible location View details

ABOUT US 

Switalskis is an award-winning law firm listed in The Sunday Times Best Places to Work 2024 & 2025.

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

We’re seeking a Costs Lawyer or Costs Draftsperson to join our growing in-house team, supporting costs recovery across our Claimant departments. You’ll be primarily focused on drafting Bills of Costs to a high standard, ensuring maximum, accurate, and compliant cost recovery for our clients.

This is a great opportunity for someone with at least 2 years’ experience (or more) in either a Claimant or Defendant environment, who excels in accurate and precise Bill drafting. While this is the core focus, we welcome applications from those with broader experience across costs work.

We value continuous professional development, and offer clear opportunities for progression and sponsored qualification as a Costs Lawyer within a supportive team environment.

Key Responsibilities

  • Draft detailed, accurate Bills of Costs across a wide range of case types including: Personal Injury, Brain and Spinal Injury, Clinical Negligence, Child Abuse.
  • Prepare Schedules of Costs for trial, Create cost estimates to support applications for payments on account of costs
  • Opportunity to run a full caseload of costs negotiations, budgeting, advisory work, and advocacy

Skills and Experience

  • Qualified Costs Lawyer or Costs Draftsman with a minimum of 2 years’ experience
  • Strong background in Bill drafting
  • In-depth knowledge of CPR rules
  • Excellent attention to detail
  • Organised and proactive, with the ability to meet deadlines
  • A strong team player who communicates clearly and supports colleagues

Working Arrangements

This is a hybrid role with flexibility, but the successful candidate must be able to attend the office at least 1 day per week in either our Bradford or Doncaster office.


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
Solictor - Child Abuse Compensation View details

ABOUT US 

Switalskis is an award-winning law firm listed in The Sunday Times Best Places to Work 2024 & 2025.

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

We are seeking a dedicated Solicitor to join our Child Abuse department. The successful candidate will work closely with the Directors, providing legal assistance and managing cases related to child sexual exploitation (CSE), grooming gangs, and other child abuse cases. This is a fee-earning role with responsibility for managing cases from start to finish. We welcome applicants from all levels of PQE and experience – whether newly qualified or more senior, we are keen to find the right person to join our growing team.

The position offers flexibility, including the possibility of remote working, though regular in-person contact with the team and clients will be essential. Some office presence will be required for team collaboration and meetings.

Our nationally recognised, award-winning Child Abuse department is at the forefront of seeking justice for survivors, working on ground-breaking and high-profile cases that regularly make national headlines. You’ll be joining a passionate and experienced team committed to making a real difference in the lives of our clients.

Key Responsibilities

  • Manage a caseload of child abuse cases, including CSE, grooming gangs, and other related matters, from start to finish.
  • Conduct case reviews, analyse documentation, and provide legal advice.
  • Attend client meetings, ensuring client needs are met and offering support throughout the legal process.
  • Maintain accurate case records and compliance with professional standards.
  • Work closely with other professionals, experts, and external agencies to build cases.
  • Attend and document meetings, ensuring all key points are captured and followed up accordingly
  • Adhere to all confidentiality and professional conduct requirements.
  • Manage finances responsibliy and comply with firm procedures.
  • Comply with mandatory training and any other duties as directed by the firm.


Skills and Experience

  • Excellent Communication Skills: Ability to communicate effectively with clients, colleagues, and external professionals, demonstrating empathy and professionalism.
  • Relevant Legal Knowledge: A solid understanding of child abuse law, particularly around CSE, grooming gangs, and civil cases for survivors of abuse.
  • Experience in Child Abuse Cases: Proven track record of handling child sex abuse cases, including case preparation, client interaction, and legal representation.
  • Strong Analytical Ability: Excellent attention to detail, particularly in reviewing and analysing documents such as medical records and legal papers.
  • Client-Focused: Proven ability to provide exceptional client care and maintain strong client relationships throughout a case


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
Business Support Assistant - Doncaster View details

ABOUT US 

Switalskis is an award-winning law firm listed in The Sunday Times Best Places to Work 2024 & 2025.

Established in 1993 by Stephen Switalskis, 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 

Are you a proactive and personable individual with a passion for delivering excellent service? We’re looking for a Business Support Assistant to be the welcoming face and first point of contact for our office, as well as a key provider of vital administrative support to our team.

This is a great opportunity to be part of a supportive, professional environment where no two days are the same. If you have a can do attitude and enjoy being at the heart of a busy office, we’d love to hear from you.

WHAT YOU'LL BE DOING 

·       Answering and directing incoming phone calls and other communications

·       Greeting and assisting office visitors with professionalism and warmth

·       Handling day-to-day administrative tasks, including managing post and maintaining a tidy office environment

·       Organising refreshments for meetings and supporting internal events

·       Monitoring and replenishing office supplies, stationery, and sundries

·       Pitching in with any other duties that support the smooth running of the business

WHAT WE'RE LOOKING FOR

·       Previous experience in reception or call-handling roles

·       Excellent communication and interpersonal skills

·       Strong commitment to delivering outstanding client care

·       Organised, reliable, and able to manage multiple tasks with ease

·       Proficiency in Microsoft 365 (Word, Excel, Outlook)

·       High standard of literacy and numeracy

·       Flexibility to cover occasional extra hours or offices when needed

·       A positive, team-focused attitude and willingness to learn

·       An understanding of confidentiality in a professional setting


This is a full time permenant position based at our office in Doncaster 5 days per week. 

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
Headshot of Julie Guest, our head of people

A career at Switalskis means being part of a firm that cares and is here for you. One of our big goals is to be a great place to work, and we really strive to achieve that.

I'm delighted that we've once again been recognised as one of The Sunday Times 2025 Best Places to Work. We’ve been recognised in the ‘Best Big Organisations’ category, that's companies with 250 to 1,999 employees. Out of the 115 organisations selected in this group, just seven are law firms and only three of those, including Switalskis, are proudly based in Yorkshire.

To put that into context, there are almost 10,000 regulated law firms in the UK – and only 24 across all categories made this year’s list. That makes our achievement something truly special.

Switalskis is a firm that’s going places. We’re dynamic and progressive, and we never stand still. We have previously been 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.

Julie Guest
Head of People

Man smiling at the thought of future legal career

Benefits at Switalskis

We believe in fairly rewarding our team. Our competitive salaries are complemented by a range of benefits including the below. We review the benefits we offer to employees regularly to make sure they remain competitive and align with our values.

Financial

  • Qualifying earnings company pension scheme
  • Contractual sick pay for up to 5 weeks
  • Enhanced maternity payments
  • 12 weeks of statutory maternity leave
  • Recruitment bonus payments

Work-life balance

  • Flexible working hours
  • Remote working available (role-dependent)
  • Perkbox membership

Holidays

  • 5 weeks of annual leave plus bank holidays and company days (prorated)
  • Additional half-day holiday for Christmas and New Year’s Eve
  • Option to buy or sell annual leave

Health and wellbeing

  • Group life assurance scheme
  • Group income protection
  • Group critical illness
  • Bupa Wellbeing Plan, including membership for up to 4 children

We believe that who we are makes us a great place to pursue a career. Email recruitment@switalskis.com to find out more.

Why Switalskis?

Embarking on a career at Switalskis means
choosing to become part of a firm that goes
beyond the conventional legal practice to
create an environment of growth, support
and balance.

playing games at summer party

Shot of hills as sunsets in the background

Rich heritage and reputation

With a strong legacy in the legal sector, Switalskis has built a reputation for excellence, integrity and impactful service. Being a part of our team means contributing to a prestigious and meaningful legacy.

People raising their hands in a crowd

Inclusive and diverse culture

Our firm is a tapestry of diverse talents, backgrounds and perspectives. We’re committed to fostering an inclusive environment where every person feels valued, respected and empowered to contribute their best.

Woman smiling thinking about professional development

Professional growth and development

Your growth is our priority. At Switalskis, we provide learning opportunities, mentorship and an environment to hone your skills, expand your knowledge and ascend in your legal career. To find out more about career development at Switalskis, take a look at our guide.

Switalskis team members at a social event

Work-life balance

We understand the importance of your personal time. While we are dedicated to delivering exceptional legal services, we also promote a healthy work-life balance to make sure our team members have ample time for their personal pursuits and wellbeing.

Man working from home

Innovative hybrid working model

Embracing the future of work, we offer a balanced hybrid-working model. This model encourages collaboration, flexibility and a harmonious blend of in-office and remote work, catering to the evolving needs of our workforce and the firm.

Woman being involved in community engagement

Community engagement

Our business is deeply rooted in community service. Being part of Switalskis means engaging in meaningful community outreach initiatives and embodying our belief in the positive impact of legal service in society.

Life at Switalskis

Starting a career at Switalskis propels you into
one of the UK’s top-tier law firms, but don’t just
take our word for it. Team members from across
the business have shared their journey and
experiences to provide a glimpse into life at Switalskis.

Switalskis team members at social event

Employee stories

An insight into the Switalskis team

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
Read more
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 ChanSolicitor
Read more
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
Read more
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
Read more
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
Read more

Got a question?

If you have any questions about starting a career at Switalskis, 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.

When completing this form, the details you provide will only be used to deal with your enquiry. Please read our Privacy Policy for more information on how your data is used and stored.

Contact us