Disputes Solicitor

NQ Solicitor – Consumer & Small Claims Litigation

12 Month Contract | In-House | Hybrid – Essex

We are working with a global automotive manufacturer seeking a Newly Qualified Solicitor (0–1 PQE) with litigation experience.

This is an excellent opportunity for a junior disputes lawyer to take ownership of a defined small claims litigation caseload within a well-resourced in-house legal function , with real advocacy exposure and direct engagement with senior internal stakeholders.

The role is based at the organisation’s Essex , with hybrid working available .

The Role

You will manage a rolling caseload of pre-action and Small Claims Court matters across England and Wales . The caseload is structured and manageable, typically around 10 active litigation matters at any one time , allowing for proper preparation and advocacy.

Responsibilities will include:

• Managing cases from initial assessment through to hearing and resolution

• Drafting statements of case, witness statements, applications and correspondence

• Conducting legal research across Civil Procedure Rules, contract law and consumer law

• Representing the business at Small Claims hearings

• Liaising directly with internal stakeholders including customer service, engineering and commercial teams

• Ensuring full compliance with CPR requirements and internal governance procedures

This is not a high-volume processing role . The position requires sound judgement, independence and the confidence to represent the business in hearings.

About You

To be considered, you will:

• Be a qualified Solicitor in England & Wales (NQ – 1 PQE)

• Have litigation experience , ideally gained during training or in an early disputes role

• Demonstrate familiarity with the Civil Procedure Rules

• Be comfortable managing matters independently and attending hearings

• Have strong drafting and legal research skills

• Be confident working with internal stakeholders in a commercial environment

Experience in consumer disputes, contract claims, or product-related litigation will be particularly advantageous.

Why This Role

• In-house litigation role within a globally recognised organisation

• Real advocacy exposure early in your career

• Autonomous caseload with structured support from the legal team

• Hybrid working

• 12 month contract with potential extension

This role provides an excellent opportunity for a junior disputes lawyer to develop advocacy experience while working within a major in-house legal team.

If you are a Newly Qualified Solicitor with litigation experience seeking an in-house disputes role with real responsibility and advocacy exposure , we would be pleased to hear from you.