Construction Associate

JMC Legal Recruitment; Bristol; Hybrid; GBP 45,000 - 75,000; Full time

Job description

This innovative law firm is known for its dynamic and fluid structure, where collaboration and agility are at the heart of everything. The firm is driven by a commitment to continuously improve client service while growing its community of talented lawyers. With a team of commercially-minded professionals, the firm focuses on delivering exceptional legal services with both clients and people at the forefront.

The firm is deeply committed to quality at every level of its operations, with long-term client relationships at the core of its success. It measures success through helping clients achieve their business goals, becoming an extension of their commercial and legal teams. This culture of excellence is evident in the firm's high-quality service, rapid response times, and precision in delivering advice.

About the Role

An exciting opportunity has arisen for an Associate to join the rapidly growing construction team. As a Construction Associate, you will be integral to advising clients on a wide range of construction-related matters, both contentious and non-contentious. Your work will involve navigating complex construction projects, assisting with dispute resolution, and providing high-level contract advice, negotiation, and drafting.

You will have the chance to manage a varied caseload, ranging from reviewing and amending construction contracts to supporting high-stakes construction litigation cases. This is a key role that will help drive the team's growth, with the opportunity to develop your expertise while contributing to the team's ongoing success.

Key Responsibilities

• Dispute Resolution: Advise clients on construction disputes, including mediation, arbitration, and litigation. Provide support in high-stakes cases with a proven ability to resolve complex matters.
• Contract Negotiation & Drafting: Review, negotiate, and draft construction contracts, including standard forms such as JCT, NEC, FIDIC, and bespoke agreements tailored to the client's needs.
• Client-Centric Approach: Provide ongoing support to clients throughout the lifecycle of construction projects, ensuring adherence to contractual obligations, payment schedules, and project timelines.
• Collaboration: Work closely with other departments, such as project finance and construction management, to provide comprehensive and integrated legal advice to clients.
• Project Support: Assist with both front-end (contract negotiation and drafting) and back-end (dispute resolution) construction matters, providing effective legal solutions at each stage of the process.

About You

• PQE: A minimum of 4 years PQE in construction law, with experience in both contentious and non-contentious matters.
• Legal Knowledge: Strong understanding of relevant construction legislation, including the Construction Act and Housing Grants, Construction and Regeneration Act 1996.
• Technical Skills: Proficiency in reviewing and negotiating construction and engineering contracts, with a keen eye for detail.
• Communication Skills: Excellent interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to build rapport with clients, colleagues, and external stakeholders.
• Ambitious & Collaborative: A proactive team player who thrives in a collaborative environment and is keen to share knowledge and contribute to the growth of the team.
• Innovative & Tech-Savvy: An interest in leveraging legal technology to improve efficiency and enhance service delivery.

Why Join?

• Growth Opportunities: Be part of a firm in a dynamic phase of growth, with ample opportunities for career progression.
• Diverse Client Portfolio: Work on high-profile planning and infrastructure matters, contributing to impactful projects across the UK.
• Innovative Culture: Join a forward-thinking, tech-focused firm that encourages innovative ideas and values each team member's input.
• Flexible Working: Enjoy hybrid working options and a supportive environment that values work-life balance.

If you're an experienced Construction Associate with a passion for delivering top-tier legal services and the drive to be part of an innovative, expanding team, we want to hear from you. Take the next step in your career with a firm committed to excellence and making a meaningful impact across the UK.