Small Claims Track File Handler

Working in our Non Delegated Authority (NDA) motor unit, the role of 'file handler' is to handle a caseload of small claims track litigated motor instructions on behalf of key insurer clients, from issue of proceedings through to Trial.

It will be necessary for the candidate to be able to demonstrate an ability to impress the client with the extent of their legal knowledge and provide clear unambiguous advice on the strategy for bringing a claim to its resolution. A clear view on both relevant case law and appropriate evidence will be necessary.

Whilst not essential, it would be preferable for candidates to have experience of handling indemnity disputed cases and counterclaims.

There is no requirement for the candidate to be a Solicitor or Legal Executive. Both qualified and non-qualified candidates are welcome to apply for the role. This is a non chargeable hours role.

Key Accountabilities:

• Reviewing files, noting and abiding by Client Guidelines
• Knowledge of litigation, the CPR Rules and Court procedures
• Formulating initial and ongoing Strategy, efficiently and effectively, having in mind the appropriate fee structure
• Draft reports confirming Strategy and agreeing the most suitable approach with the client
• Draft legal documents and comply with Court orders/deadlines
• Throughout the lifetime of a case, being aware of the overall spend on a claim, whether fixed fee or hourly rate.
• Undertaking negotiations with Third Party Solicitors
• Liaising with Insured and Insurers and Brokers where necessary
• Ensuring 'actions’ are carried out as per Action Lists in Case Management System
• Undertaking Court Hearings
• Ensuring relevant tasks are delegated to the paralegals
• Accurately processing bills in accordance with Client Guidelines
• Ensuring files are kept within ISO 9001 guidelines
• To ensure compliance with the SRA Standards & Regulation
• Adhere to the Keoghs Values

Working Hours:

35 hours per week, Monday - Friday 9am - 5pm with 1 unpaid hour for lunch. Primary location for this role is Bolton, Parklands Office. Hybrid working 1 day in the office 4 days from home

Essential Skills and Attributes:

• Sound and practical experience of handling Small Claims Track RTA litigated files is essential, with evidence of managing own case load and reporting skills
• Drafting of legal documents, including defences, applications, witness statements, Part 18 Questions
• Liaising with and drafting instructions to Counsel
• Experience of managing fixed fees whilst delivering quality
• Good telephone negotiation skills
• Excellent listening and verbal communication skills
• Good IT skills including Word, Outlook, and experience of a Case Management System, and preference for working paperless but not essential

Ability to:
- Work as part of a Team
- Use own initiative
- Plan and prioritise workloads, and effectively use delegation
- Remain clam under pressure
- Recognise when sensitivity and tact are required
- identify key facts/issues and make early investigations and decisions to bring a case to a conclusion

Compensation package

Hybrid working 1 day in the office, 4 days remote, Health Care Cash Plan, Holidays 25 days plus 8 bank holidays (opportunity to buy & sell 3 days) increasing to 26 after 5 years’ service and to 27 after 10 years’ service, Death In Service - after 1 year, Employer Pension Contribution, Cycle to Work Scheme, Tech Scheme, Season Ticket Loan*, Gym Flex

Our culture is focussed on making Keoghs sustainable and successful for our people and clients, with this our four values are at the heart of everything we do;

We are connected
We are Dynamic
We are Innovative
We succeed together