NQ Solicitor – Consumer & Small Claims Litigation

12 Month Contract | In-House | Hybrid – Essex

We are working with a global automotive manufacturer seeking a Newly Qualified Solicitor (0–1 PQE) with litigation experience.

This is an excellent opportunity for a junior disputes lawyer to take ownership of a defined small claims litigation caseload within a well-resourced in-house legal function, with real advocacy exposure and direct engagement with senior internal stakeholders.

The role is based at the organisation’s Essex, with hybrid working available.

The Role

You will manage a rolling caseload of pre-action and Small Claims Court matters across England and Wales. The caseload is structured and manageable, typically around 10 active litigation matters at any one time, allowing for proper preparation and advocacy.

Responsibilities will include:

• Managing cases from initial assessment through to hearing and resolution

• Drafting statements of case, witness statements, applications and correspondence

• Conducting legal research across Civil Procedure Rules, contract law and consumer law

• Representing the business at Small Claims hearings

• Liaising directly with internal stakeholders including customer service, engineering and commercial teams

• Ensuring full compliance with CPR requirements and internal governance procedures

This is not a high-volume processing role. The position requires sound judgement, independence and the confidence to represent the business in hearings.

About You

To be considered, you will:

• Be a qualified Solicitor in England & Wales (NQ – 1 PQE)

• Have litigation experience, ideally gained during training or in an early disputes role

• Demonstrate familiarity with the Civil Procedure Rules

• Be comfortable managing matters independently and attending hearings

• Have strong drafting and legal research skills

• Be confident working with internal stakeholders in a commercial environment

Experience in consumer disputes, contract claims, or product-related litigation will be particularly advantageous.

Why This Role

• In-house litigation role within a globally recognised organisation

• Real advocacy exposure early in your career

• Autonomous caseload with structured support from the legal team

• Hybrid working

• 12 month contract with potential extension

This role provides an excellent opportunity for a junior disputes lawyer to develop advocacy experience while working within a major in-house legal team.

If you are a Newly Qualified Solicitor with litigation experience seeking an in-house disputes role with real responsibility and advocacy exposure, we would be pleased to hear from you.