Paralegal/Solicitor - Personal Injury Motor Litigation

Role Overview

Join the growing Motor team as a Paralegal, Litigation Executive, or Solicitor specializing in Personal Injury Motor claims based in Leeds. This role involves managing a litigated caseload primarily focused on small claims regarding liability and vehicle damage. You will share a workload of approximately 100 active files and support fellow Litigation Executives and Claims Handlers as needed. Responsibilities include drafting legal documents, applications, offers, court orders, and directions, participating in telephone conferences, and ensuring case management adheres to Service Level Agreements (SLAs). The role also involves evaluating damages, negotiating with third-party solicitors, insurers, and clients over the phone, and formulating detailed case plans.

Key Responsibilities

• Manage litigated small claims regarding motor vehicle liability and damage.
• Draft and prepare all necessary legal documents and court submissions.
• Engage in negotiations and maintain communications with third-party solicitors, insurers, insurer clients, and lay clients.
• Attend telephone conferences and ensure cases are handled within prescribed deadlines and standards.
• Review the valuation of general and special damages and develop case strategy plans.

Candidate Profile and Requirements

Ideal candidates will have prior experience in handling litigated claims, preferably focusing on defendant cases in the motor insurance sector. Familiarity with the Civil Procedure Rules (CPR) and the Solicitors Regulation Authority (SRA) Code of Conduct is essential, as well as practical knowledge of motor insurance matters. Successful applicants should display eagerness, self-motivation, the ability to meet and exceed targets, and thrive in a fast-paced environment. Initiative and aptitude for creative problem-solving are highly valued. A strong sense of teamwork and dedication are crucial, as the team values collaboration and knowledge sharing to achieve superior client outcomes.

Career Development and Progression

The firm prioritizes talent growth and offers multiple progression pathways, including training contracts, Graduate Legal Apprenticeships, and leadership opportunities such as becoming a Team Leader. Recognition and reward for high performance are integral to the firm’s culture, with internal promotion favored. Several training contracts have recently been allocated internally, particularly within the Motor and Casualty departments.

Company Benefits and Workplace Environment

This is an innovative, forward-thinking law firm distinguished by flexible working schedules and a relaxed dress code, encouraging authenticity at work. Employee development is a key focus, supported by:

• 25 days annual leave plus public holidays, increasing to 30 days with continued service
• Private healthcare coverage
• Company pension scheme
• Enhanced parental leave provisions
• Cycle to Work scheme
• Life insurance and income protection
• Employee Assistance Program and digital GP service access
• Season ticket loan options
• Flu vaccination vouchers
• Bonus program
• Access to a company discounts hub

About the Firm

Founded in 1969, HF is a leading UK legal and handling service provider catering primarily to insurance and commercial sectors. They serve 12 of the UK's largest insurers with specialist expertise across Counter Fraud, Large and Catastrophic Injury, Motor, Disease, Casualty, Aviation, Recoveries, Costs, and Credit Hire. Recently, the firm has expanded its offerings and workforce substantially, maintaining a client-focused, innovative approach.

Equal Opportunity and Application Process

The firm is committed to inclusive recruitment practices and supports candidates requiring accommodations during the hiring process. Applicants are encouraged to disclose any needed adjustments to facilitate their candidacy.