Senior Associate (Court of Protection Health & Welfare), Reading
Award Winning, National & Top Tier Legal 500 Law Firm

A fantastic opportunity for a Senior Associate Solicitor to join the specialist Court of Protection team of an award-winning Legal 500 law firm with offices across the UK.

This is a particularly good opportunity for an experienced practitioner looking to manage a specialised Health & Welfare caseload, take on team leadership responsibilities, and drive business development within a supportive, flexible, and outcome-focused environment.

The Role
You will proactively manage a caseload of Court of Protection matters relating to health and welfare while actively supporting the Team Leader and deputising in their absence.
The role offers direct involvement in complex, high-profile matters alongside team management responsibilities, including 1-to-1 monthly meetings, compliance, and contributing to the development of the firm's case management system.
There is also an expectation that you will take a proactive approach to business development, giving you the opportunity to build referral networks, secure work, and raise your profile within the field.

Your work is likely to include:
• Section 21A and Section 16 applications, along with general COP H&W queries
• Care funding issues and related public law / Education law matters
• Acting as a caseworker under the Mental Health Legal Aid Contract
• Direct court representation, advocacy, and instructing Counsel
• Financial control, accurate time recording, and prompt billing in line with COP rules and targets

About You
The ideal candidate will have:
• Approximately 7+ years’ PQE with extensive experience in complex Court of Protection matters
• Law Society Mental Health Accreditation (preferred, or a commitment to obtain it)
• Demonstrated ability to coach, mentor, and develop team members to reach their potential
• A strong understanding of the Mental Health Legal Aid Contract and LAA requirements
• Excellent communication, teamwork, attention to detail, and initiative
• Confidence in networking, building referral sources, and driving cross-referrals
• A commitment to firm values: Cooperation, Courage, Excellence, Integrity, and Kindness

The Firm
You will be joining a progressive, nationally recognized practice whose mission is to empower clients to achieve everything from basic needs to their wildest dreams.
The firm offers a flexible, outcome-based working environment rather than a standard 9-to-5 structure. You will be supported with training, shared knowledge, and a non-judgmental atmosphere where teamwork and client confidentiality are paramount.

Benefits

The benefits package includes:
• Competitive salary plus firm-wide annual bonus scheme
• Flexible, agile working arrangements (35 hours/week)
• 25 days’ holiday (FTE) + 3 days off at Christmas + 5 extra days paid leave every 5 years
• Birthday perks: £50 gift card plus a late start or early finish
• Christmas gift card (£50) and seasonal closure
• 4% pension employer contribution (Standard Life) and Life Assurance (3x salary)
• 24/7 Employee Assistance Program, GP helpline, and free annual flu injection
• Vivup well-being portal, Tastecard app discounts, and Electric Car Salary Sacrifice / Cycle to Work schemes

Interested? If you are an experienced Court of Protection Solicitor looking for a role where you can lead, shape a department, and balance career growth with true flexibility, this could be an excellent next step.

Get in touch! For more information, or to discuss this opportunity confidentially, please contact me on 07932465567 or at [email protected].