The legal job in the UK remains one of the most dynamic and competitive professional arenas. Among the various roles in the legal field, employment solicitors play a vital role in ensuring compliance, protecting rights, and managing disputes between employers and employees. But what exactly does an employment solicitor do? What qualifications do you need? And more importantly, how can you find and succeed in these roles across the UK?
In this guide, we’ll answer all those questions and offer useful insights for aspiring or experienced solicitors who are ready to take their next career step.
What is the Role of an Employment Solicitor?
An employment solicitor advises and represents clients on a wide range of workplace issues. These may include unfair dismissal claims, redundancy processes, workplace discrimination cases, and contract negotiations. Unlike general solicitors, employment solicitors specialize in employment law, offering a more targeted and expert service.
Those working in employment solicitor jobs in the UK often assist both individuals and businesses, delivering tailored legal advice and ensuring that all employment-related frameworks are properly followed. The role demands not only in-depth legal knowledge but also excellent communication and people skills, especially when managing sensitive or high-stakes disputes.
Where Do Employment Solicitors Typically Work?
Employment solicitors work in various settings depending on their specialisation and career goals. Here's a closer look at where you might find employment solicitor jobs in the UK:
1. Law Firms
Many employment solicitors work at law firms, ranging from small regional practices to large multinational firms. These roles often involve representing both employers and employees, offering a broad scope of experience.
2. In-House Legal Teams
Larger organisations often employ in-house solicitors to manage their employment law needs. This offers a more stable work environment and a deeper understanding of a single organisation’s internal culture.
3. Public Sector
Government departments, local councils, and other public bodies also require employment law experts to advise on HR policy, litigation, and employment contracts.
4. Employment Tribunals and Advisory Services
Some solicitors choose to work with or within employment tribunals, ACAS (Advisory, Conciliation and Arbitration Service), or trade unions. These roles focus more on dispute resolution and mediation.
What Qualifications and Skills Do You Need?
To secure an employment solicitor job in the UK, you must meet a series of academic and professional requirements. The journey typically follows this path:
Educational Requirements
Law Degree (LLB): The traditional route starts with a qualifying law degree.
Graduate Diploma in Law (GDL): Non-law graduates can convert via this one-year course.
Legal Practice Course (LPC): Soon to be replaced by the Solicitors Qualifying Examination (SQE), this course prepares you for practical legal work.
Professional Experience
Training Contract: A two-year training period with a law firm is essential to gain practical experience.
Qualification: Once the training contract is complete, you can apply for admission to the Solicitors Regulation Authority (SRA).
Key Skills
Aside from academic credentials, employers look for:
Strong negotiation skills
Excellent written and verbal communication
The ability to work under pressure
Good understanding of current employment law trends
Client-focused mindset
What Does a Day in the Life of an Employment Solicitor Look Like?
Employment solicitors enjoy varied workdays. Let’s break it down:
Morning: Start with checking emails, reviewing new casework, or preparing documents for tribunal hearings.
Midday: Attend client meetings, negotiate settlements, or provide legal advice.
Afternoon: Research legal precedents, write contracts or letters of advice, and liaise with HR departments.
Evening: Catch up on professional development or industry news.
The work can be intense, but it’s also deeply rewarding for those who love solving problems and making a tangible difference in people’s lives.
What is the Average Salary for Employment Solicitors in the UK?
Salaries vary depending on location, experience, and the type of organisation. Here’s a general breakdown:
Trainee Solicitor: £22,000 – £28,000 outside London; £30,000 – £45,000 in London
Newly Qualified Solicitor: £40,000 – £60,000
Mid-Level (5+ years PQE): £60,000 – £85,000
Senior Solicitor or Partner: £90,000 – £150,000+
In-house roles may offer additional benefits like bonuses, healthcare, and a better work-life balance, which can be appealing for many legal professionals.
What Are the Current Trends in Employment Law Jobs?
The employment law field has experienced significant change in recent years. Brexit, the COVID-19 pandemic, and a greater focus on mental health and workplace equality have all shifted the legal landscape. These changes have increased demand for skilled employment solicitors who can navigate new legislation and guide clients through uncertainty.
Remote working policies, flexible hours, and hybrid arrangements are now common. Many law firms actively support remote interviews and flexible contracts, which opens more opportunities for candidates outside major cities.
How to Find Employment Solicitor Jobs in the UK?
You can find employment solicitor jobs through a variety of sources. Here are a few effective strategies:
1. Legal Recruitment Agencies
Agencies like The Legists specialise in legal placements. We understand the nuances of the legal industry and help match candidates with roles that suit their skills and ambitions. Our network and industry knowledge significantly increase your chances of finding the perfect job.
2. Online Job Boards
Websites such as Indeed, Reed, and Totaljobs list thousands of legal jobs daily. However, they can feel overwhelming. That’s why narrowing your search to niche platforms focused on legal careers is often more effective.
3. LinkedIn and Networking
Having a strong LinkedIn profile and actively networking within the legal community can open doors you didn’t know existed. Attend legal events, connect with recruiters, and stay active online.
4. Law Firm Websites
If you have a particular firm in mind, check their careers page regularly. Many firms list vacancies exclusively on their websites.
How Can You Stand Out in the Application Process?
Securing a job as an employment solicitor involves more than just ticking the qualification boxes. Here’s how you can make your application shine:
Tailor Your CV
Generic applications get overlooked. Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter for each job. Highlight your experience in employment law, showcase successful cases, and back up claims with real results.
Stay Up to Date
Mention recent developments in employment law during your interview. This shows you are engaged and informed. It’s a simple but powerful way to make a strong impression.
Practice Interview Questions
Prepare for both competency and scenario-based questions. For example:
"Describe a time you dealt with a difficult client."
"What would you do if an employer asked for advice that could harm an employee?"
Demonstrate Emotional Intelligence
Employers want someone who can handle sensitive matters with empathy and professionalism. Your interpersonal skills matter just as much as your legal knowledge.
Final Thoughts: Is a Career as an Employment Solicitor Right for You?
Choosing to specialise in employment law is a smart move for solicitors who enjoy working closely with people, solving real-world problems, and staying on top of ever-changing legal trends. Whether you're newly qualified or looking for a change, the opportunities are vast—and growing.
At The Legists, we’re here to help you navigate your job search, prepare for interviews, and land a role where you can truly thrive.
