Are you an experienced Matrimonial Solicitor looking to take the next step in your career?
Do you pride yourself on delivering empathetic, client-focused legal advice during life’s most challenging moments?
Looking for a role where you can make a genuine impact while working with high-quality private family law cases?
Gillespie Recruitment are delighted to be working with a growing and well-regarded legal firm to recruit a Matrimonial Solicitor for their Sunderland office.
This is an excellent opportunity to join an established and supportive team, working on a varied caseload of privately funded family matters. You’ll play a key role in delivering sensitive, practical legal advice while contributing to the ongoing development of a highly regarded department.
With a strong reputation for client care and a growing presence across the North of England, this role offers the chance to build a rewarding career within a people-focused and ambitious firm.
The Role
As a Matrimonial Solicitor, you will manage your own caseload of family and matrimonial matters, providing expert advice and support to clients navigating complex personal situations.
You will deliver a professional, compassionate service while contributing to the growth and success of the wider family law team.
Key Responsibilities
Case Management
- Manage a full caseload of privately funded family law matters
- Handle divorce and separation cases
- Advise on financial settlements and asset division
- Manage private children matters, including custody and contact arrangements
- Handle cohabitation disputes and agreements
Legal & Advisory Work
- Draft legal documentation including divorce petitions, consent orders, and financial statements
- Provide clear, practical, and tailored advice to clients
- Represent clients in negotiations and liaise with barristers, courts, and third parties
- Support mediation and alternative dispute resolution where appropriate
Client Care
- Build and maintain strong client relationships
- Deliver a sensitive, empathetic, and professional service
- Guide clients through often challenging personal situations with confidence
Team & Department Growth
- Contribute to the growth of the family law department
- Support business development initiatives where appropriate
- Ensure compliance with SRA regulations and firm standards
About You
Essential Skills & Experience
- Qualified Solicitor in England & Wales
- 3+ years PQE in family/matrimonial law (flexible depending on experience)
- Strong experience handling privately funded matrimonial matters
- Excellent knowledge of divorce, financial remedies, and children law
- Ability to manage a caseload independently
- Strong organisational and communication skills
Personal Attributes
- Highly empathetic with a client-first approach
- Professional and discreet in handling sensitive matters
- Confident and personable communicator
- Well-organised with strong attention to detail
- Passionate about delivering high-quality legal support
Desirable Experience
- Advocacy experience (not essential)
- Mediation training or experience
- Existing client following or referral network
- Experience within a busy regional or high street firm
What’s on Offer
- Competitive salary and benefits package
- Supportive and collaborative working environment
- High-quality private client work
- Opportunity to play a key role in a growing department
- Career progression opportunities within an expanding firm
Why Apply?
This is a fantastic opportunity to join an ambitious and expanding firm where you can make a meaningful difference to clients’ lives while progressing your career in a supportive environment.
If you’re looking for a role where your expertise, empathy, and professionalism are truly valued – this could be the perfect move.
