Job description
Senior Family Law Solicitor - Belfast (Hybrid)
Salary: Highly competitive, commensurate with seniority and experience
Location: Belfast City Centre
Contract: Permanent, Full-Time (flexible working considered)
About the Firm
Our client is a highly regarded and long-established legal practice with a strong presence in Belfast. Known for its progressive culture, excellent reputation, and commitment to quality client service, the firm provides a supportive and collegiate working environment. Due to continued growth within their Family Law department, they are now seeking an experienced Senior Family Law Solicitor to play a key role in the team's ongoing development.
Position Overview
This is a senior-level opportunity suited to an accomplished Family Law Solicitor looking to take a leading role within a well-resourced and forward-thinking department. The successful candidate will manage a complex and high-quality caseload while also contributing to the strategic direction and continued growth of the practice.
You will work with a high degree of autonomy, supported by excellent administrative and peer support, and will be trusted to deliver commercially sound, empathetic, and practical advice to clients at what are often challenging times.
Key Responsibilities
Managing a broad and complex private family law caseload, including divorce, financial relief, ancillary relief (including high-value matters), and private children cases
Acting as a senior point of contact for clients, providing clear, pragmatic, and sensitive legal advice
Taking conduct of matters from initial instruction through to resolution, including advocacy where appropriate
Drafting and reviewing legal documentation, pleadings, and court papers to a high standard
Representing clients in court and liaising with counsel where required
Supporting, mentoring, and supervising junior solicitors and trainees within the team
Contributing to business development, profile-raising, and departmental growth initiatives
Assisting with the ongoing development of processes and best practice within the family law team
Maintaining exceptional client care standards and strong professional relationships
Candidate Profile
The ideal candidate will demonstrate:
A current practising certificate and admission to the Roll of Solicitors in Northern Ireland
Significant post-qualification experience in family law, with proven capability in handling complex matters independently
Strong technical knowledge and sound professional judgement
Excellent communication and client-handling skills, with a compassionate and measured approach
Experience supervising or mentoring junior team members (or a clear desire to do so)
A collaborative mindset and commitment to contributing positively to firm culture
Confidence using digital case management systems
Working knowledge of LAMS (desirable)
Membership of the Children Order Panel or Guardian Ad Litem Panel (advantageous)
Benefits
The firm offers a comprehensive and competitive package, including:
Highly competitive salary and benefits
Generous holiday entitlement
Clear progression pathways and support for ongoing professional development
Hybrid and flexible working arrangements to support work/life balance
Pension and health-related benefits
A supportive, inclusive, and modern working environment
For further information on this role, or to discuss other senior legal opportunities in Belfast or across Northern Ireland, apply via the link or contact Ciaran Gallagher for a confidential discussion.
VANRATH acts as an agency and employment business for permanent recruitment and the supply of temporary workers.
