We’ve served our local community in the South Hams since 1832, and over that time we’ve built up a strong reputation as skilled, friendly and straightforward advisers. We have offices in Totnes and Kingsbridge and all work hard to ensure it is an enjoyable place to work whilst maintaining the highest standards for our clients. A recent staff survey asked for three words to describe the culture of Windeatts as a place to work. The top five words (from highest to lowest) were:
Friendly, Professional, Supportive, Relaxed and Caring
We are always eager to connect with talented and innovative individuals who are passionate about making a difference in the legal field. Whether you are an experienced professional or just starting your career, we invite you to explore opportunities with us. At our firm, we value creativity, dedication, and a forward-thinking approach, and we believe that great people are the cornerstone of our success. If you are looking to contribute to a dynamic and supportive environment, we encourage you to submit your CV and with a view to joining our team.
If you are interested in joining us, please email your CV to our Practice Manager, Alex Halls at hr@windeatts.co.uk
If you would prefer an informal, confidential chat about career options at Windeatts, you can reach Alex on 01803 860606.
Current vacancies:
Job Title: Litigator
Location: Kingsbridge/Totnes, South Hams, Devon, United Kingdom
Job Type: Part-Time – 25 - 30 hours
Overview:
We are seeking a skilled and experienced Litigator to join our legal team. This is a fantastic opportunity to be part of a close-knit team involved in challenging work. The successful candidate will be responsible for handling a variety of contentious legal matters, representing clients in civil litigation cases, and advising on dispute resolution strategies. The role requires a deep understanding of UK law, court procedures, and strong advocacy skills.
Key Responsibilities:
Case Management: Handle all aspects of litigation, from initial instruction through to settlement or trial, including drafting pleadings, preparing witness statements, and managing disclosure.
Client Representation: Advise and represent clients in court, tribunals, or alternative dispute resolution forums such as arbitration or mediation.
Advocacy: Present cases in court, including conducting pre-trial hearings, making legal submissions, and cross-examining witnesses.
Legal Research: Conduct thorough legal research to support case strategy, including interpreting laws, rulings, and regulations.
Negotiation: Engage in settlement negotiations to achieve the best possible outcome for clients, including drafting settlement agreements where applicable.
Court Filings: Prepare and submit necessary court documents, ensuring compliance with all procedural rules and deadlines.
Client Liaison: Maintain strong communication with clients, providing regular updates on case progress, risks, and potential outcomes.
Risk Assessment: Provide clear risk assessments and advise clients on potential legal exposure and costs related to litigation.
Collaboration: Work closely with colleagues, barristers, and expert witnesses to build strong cases and collaborate on complex legal matters.
Compliance: Ensure compliance with all legal and regulatory requirements, including adhering to the Solicitors Regulation Authority (SRA) Code of Conduct.
Qualifications & Skills:
Legal Qualifications: Qualified Solicitor in the UK, with a practising certificate.
Experience: Minimum of 5 years of experience in litigation, with exposure to a broad range of cases (e.g., contract, personal injury, property disputes, contentious probate etc.).
Knowledge: Strong knowledge of UK civil procedure, case law, and relevant statutes.
Advocacy Skills: Excellent oral and written advocacy skills with experience in conducting trials, hearings, or arbitrations.
Analytical Thinking: Strong legal analysis and problem-solving skills, with the ability to interpret complex legal issues and develop effective strategies.
Communication: Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to explain legal matters in a clear and concise manner to clients.
Attention to Detail: High level of accuracy and attention to detail in legal drafting and case management.
Time Management: Ability to manage multiple cases simultaneously and meet strict deadlines.
Negotiation: Strong negotiation skills to achieve favourable settlements for clients.
Technology: Proficiency with legal technology tools and case management software.
Preferred:
Experience in a specific litigation area such as all aspects of property disputes, contract disputes, personal injury and contentious probate.
Familiarity with alternative dispute resolution mechanisms, including mediation.
Salary: Competitive, based on experience and qualifications.
How to Apply:
If you think you have the attributes and skills to work with us, then we would love to hear from you. Please submit your CV and cover letter outlining your relevant experience and qualifications to hr@windeatts.co.uk
Legal Assistant (Secretary) – Family Law
Location: Totnes Office
Employment Type: Permanent (after a 6-month probation period)
Hours: Full-time (35 hours per week)
We are seeking a motivated and detail-oriented Legal Assistant (Secretary) to join our Family Law Department. This is an excellent opportunity to work in a supportive and professional environment, providing crucial administrative and secretarial support to our legal team.
Key Responsibilities:
Provide cost-effective administrative and secretarial support across departments.
Handle routine client enquiries and communications.
Manage file reviews, including closing dormant files and archiving.
Coordinate the key dates reminder system and manage matter start/completion data.
Participate in marketing activities and attend staff meetings.
Respond to internal emails within 24 hours.
Ensure compliance with practice rules and procedures as outlined in the staff handbook.
Key Requirements:
Understanding of general legal processes, file management, and basic solicitors' accounts rules.
Proficiency in IT, including file management, word processing, spreadsheets, and email systems.
Audio-typing and transcriber skills.
Excellent organisational skills, particularly for file and deeds storage.
Strong team player with a positive attitude, friendly telephone manner, and sense of responsibility.
Benefits:
Opportunity to work in a dynamic law firm with a focus on Family Law.
A supportive work environment with opportunities for professional growth.
Salary: Competitive, based on experience and qualifications.
How to Apply:
If you think you have the attributes and skills to work with us, then we would love to hear from you. Please submit your CV and cover letter outlining your relevant experience and qualifications to hr@windeatts.co.uk
Inclusion and Diversity are paramount to us here at Windeatts LLP. All our applicants and colleagues are treated fairly and respectfully, regardless of any protected characteristic/s. If you require assistance with regards to reasonable adjustments during your application process, please do not hesitate to contact us – we are always happy to help.
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