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.

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.

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 recruiting a Costs Lawyer or Costs Draftsperson with experience in legal aid costing to join our internal costs department.    

This is an exciting opportunity to join a well established internal team which continues to grow and develop and supports costs recovery across the firm in all areas, however this role would specialise in legal aid recovery.

Key Responsibilities

Whether you have a few years experience, or 30 years, we would love to hear from you!

The successful candidate will have a good working knowledge of the Costs Assessment Guidance and Civil Finance Electronic Handbook as well as a good standard of English & arithmetic.   

You will need to be able to work unsupervised in at least some of the following areas:

·       Care (public law)

·       Family (private law)

·       Court of protection (health and welfare)

·       Crime (Magistrates and Crown)

Experience of using a case management system and the costmaster billing software would be advantageous.

Some experience of Court of Protection (Finance) costs (non legal aid) would also be advantageous but not essential.

What you'll be doing

·       Preparation of both fixed fee and hourly rates claims in the above areas

·       Preparing High Costs Case Plans for Court of Protection (Health and Welfare) and Care

·       Submitting claims on the legal aid portal (CCMS) and collating accompanying documentation

·       Advising fee earners

·       Liaising with Counsel’s chambers in relation to claims

·       Liaising with third parties where appropriate

·       Preparing appeals to assessments

·       Preparation of Claim 1 and 2 forms

The role can be based at any of our Yorkshire offices, although the legal aid costs team is based predominately at Bradford, and therefore travel to Bradford may be required at times.  The role can be office based or hybrid. 


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
Solicitor - Clinical Negligence - Leeds & YorkView 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 is expected of you?

To work closely in a mini team led by a Senior Associate /Director, assisting on complex and high value clinical negligence claims, while also maintaining a caseload of lower complexity and value, across all types of clinical negligence work.

What Will the role involve?

We have a number of fee earner positions available within our Clinical Negligence teams based at office in either Leeds or York on a Hybrid basis. 

All positions are ideally full-time, but part-time applications will be considered.

The role will involve working in a mini team led by a Senior Associate / Director, assisting on complex and high value clinical negligence claims, while also maintaining a caseload of lower complexity and value (depending on the successful candidate's skills and experience), across all types of clinical negligence work.

Experience

We will consider applicants who are qualified solicitors, trainee solicitors or legal executives with experience of running their own files. We will also consider those with experience of either Claimant work or Defendant work.

What you will bring

You should have experience of conducting clinical negligence claims, or a demonstrable enthusiasm for the work. In addition, we are looking for candidates who can demonstrate the following:

  • An ability to learn quickly, to absorb, process, and understand large volumes of highly technical material, and then explain that information in a simple way to others.
  • The ability to understand and apply complex and novel legal concepts and be able to explain those in a straightforward manner, particularly to clients.
  • Excellent written and spoken communication skills.
  • A successful candidate will be a team player, well organised, and able to manage competing priorities and time pressures.
  • Familiarity with Microsoft Office (Particularly Outlook, Word and Excel), case management software, and experience of time recording.

 

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
Child Care Solicitor - Doncaster, Bradford, Sheffield 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

We are seeking a dedicated and experienced Child Care Solicitor/Legal Executive Advocate to join our team. This role involves providing expert legal representation and advice in child care law, managing a caseload of both public and private law matters, and advocating on behalf of clients in court. You will work closely with clients, social workers, and local authorities to ensure the best possible outcomes for children and families.

Key Responsibilities
• Manage a caseload of child care law files, ensuring cases progress efficiently and effectively.
• Provide expert legal advice to clients, explaining complex matters clearly and accessibly.
• Represent clients in court hearings, including care proceedings and adoption cases.
• Draft and prepare legal documents such as applications, statements, and court reports, ensuring compliance with legal requirements.
• Conduct legal research to stay updated with changes in child care law and best practice.
• Maintain compliance with the Children Panel rules and uphold high professional standards.
• Liaise with local authorities, social workers, and professionals involved in child protection cases.
• Build and maintain strong client relationships, offering compassionate and client-focused support.
• Mentor and support junior team members as needed.
• Contribute to business development by building client relationships and promoting child care legal services.
• Maintain accurate case records in line with firm policies and regulatory requirements.
• Participate in internal and external training, meetings, and conferences to stay informed on legal developments.

Experience Required

• LAA Supervisor status is preferable but not essential.

• Proven experience in managing a caseload of child care law matters, including handling complex cases.

• Strong advocacy skills with the ability to represent clients effectively in court.

• A compassionate, client-focused approach with excellent communication and relationship-building skills.

This is an exciting opportunity to make a meaningful impact in child care law, working as part of a dedicated and supportive legal team.

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
Senior IT Service Desk AnalystView 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'll deliver outstanding technical support, optimise cloud technologies, and uphold IT security practices to enhance service delivery and organisational efficiency. This is a hybrid role where you can be based from any of our 10 offices across Yorkshire, with regular meetings that will take place a few times each month in Doncaster.

Key Responsibilities:

• Manage and resolve technical support requests via the service desk system.

• Diagnose and troubleshoot IT issues both remotely and in person.

• Act as a key support lead for Microsoft cloud technologies.

• Escalate complex issues appropriately and ensure timely resolution.

• Maintain clear and detailed case notes and documentation.

• Provide user guidance to improve IT security and efficiency.

• Support IT service improvements and contribute to project delivery.

• Collaborate with internal teams and external suppliers to enhance IT services.

• Ensure compliance with SLAs and security protocols.



Essential experience we're looking for:

 2–3 years’ experience in a similar IT support role. Strong knowledge of Microsoft cloud technologies, including:

  • Entra Administration & Configuration
  • Active Directory (On-Prem) Administration
  • Hybrid Domain Environments (On-Prem & Azure)
  • Intune Configuration & Troubleshooting
  • Azure Conditional Access Policies
  • Microsoft MFA, SharePoint, and OneDrive Administration

In addition:

  • Excellent troubleshooting and problem-solving skills.
  • Strong communication and stakeholder management skills.
  • Experience documenting processes and creating user guides.
  • Ability to manage multiple tasks and prioritise effectively.
  • Understanding of IT security best practices and incident management.
  • A full UK driving licence.


Desired Experience:

  • A working knowledge of VoIP phone systems
  • A working knowledge of FreshService
  • A working knowledge of TCP/IP, DNS and DHCP
  • An awareness of the SOS case management system
  • An awareness of ITIL Service Desk methodology


Considerations:

There will be a requirement to work from any of the Switalskis offices as required by service demands.


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
Commercial Property Solicitor - 10+ years PQEView 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

We’re looking for a Senior Commercial Property Solicitor with 10+ years PQE to join our friendly and growing team. This is a fantastic leadership opportunity where you can shape the future of the department and get involved in making key strategic decisions. You’ll be based at or travel to our offices in Leeds, Bradford, and Knaresborough.

Key Responsibilities:

  • Take the lead on high-value, complex commercial property transactions
  • Offer expert legal advice and become a trusted advisor to clients
  • Mentor and support junior team members to help them grow
  • Help drive business development and build new client relationships
  • Ensure we follow firm policies and manage risks effectively
  • Contribute to the overall growth and vision of the department

Experience Required:

  • 10+ years PQE with a solid background in commercial property law
  • Proven experience in leadership, with the ability to supervise and guide a team
  • Strong client management and business development skills
  • Excellent technical expertise and a commercial mindset
  • A proactive, solution-driven approach to solving legal challenges

If you're looking for a role where you can make a real impact and work with a supportive and friendly team, 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
Commercial Property Solicitor - 3–6 years PQEView 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

We are seeking a  Commercial Property Solicitor with 3–6 years PQE to join our growing team. This role offers an exciting opportunity to manage your own caseload, work directly with clients, and play a key part in delivering high quality legal services across a broad range of commercial property transactions.

Key Responsibilities:

Independently handle a varied caseload of commercial property matters, including leases, acquisitions, and disposals.

Provide strategic legal advice and develop tailored solutions for clients.

Assist with departmental training and mentoring junior team members.

Ensure files and work processes comply with regulatory requirements.

Collaborate with colleagues across departments to support client needs.

Contribute to business development and firm wide initiatives.

Our Commercial Property teams are based across Leeds, Bradford & Knaresborough so an ability to travel to these locations is essential. 


EXPERIENCE REQUIRED

3–6 years PQE in commercial property law.

Proven experience managing complex property transactions.

Strong interpersonal skills and the ability to build lasting client relationships.

A methodical approach with excellent organisational skills.

Commercial awareness and the ability to work flexibly to meet business demands.

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
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
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 August 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:  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

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 ChanSolicitor
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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 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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