Matrimonial Solicitor

Are you an experienced Matrimonial Solicitor looking to take the next step in your career?

Do you pride yourself on delivering empathetic, client-focused legal advice during life’s most challenging moments?

Looking for a role where you can make a genuine impact while working with high-quality private family law cases?

Gillespie Recruitment are delighted to be working with a growing and well-regarded legal firm to recruit a Matrimonial Solicitor for their Sunderland office.

This is an excellent opportunity to join an established and supportive team, working on a varied caseload of privately funded family matters. You’ll play a key role in delivering sensitive, practical legal advice while contributing to the ongoing development of a highly regarded department.

With a strong reputation for client care and a growing presence across the North of England, this role offers the chance to build a rewarding career within a people-focused and ambitious firm.

The Role

As a Matrimonial Solicitor, you will manage your own caseload of family and matrimonial matters, providing expert advice and support to clients navigating complex personal situations.

You will deliver a professional, compassionate service while contributing to the growth and success of the wider family law team.

Key Responsibilities
Case Management
Manage a full caseload of privately funded family law matters
Handle divorce and separation cases
Advise on financial settlements and asset division
Manage private children matters, including custody and contact arrangements
Handle cohabitation disputes and agreements
Legal & Advisory Work
Draft legal documentation including divorce petitions, consent orders, and financial statements
Provide clear, practical, and tailored advice to clients
Represent clients in negotiations and liaise with barristers, courts, and third parties
Support mediation and alternative dispute resolution where appropriate
Client Care
Build and maintain strong client relationships
Deliver a sensitive, empathetic, and professional service
Guide clients through often challenging personal situations with confidence
Team & Department Growth
Contribute to the growth of the family law department
Support business development initiatives where appropriate
Ensure compliance with SRA regulations and firm standards
About You
Essential Skills & Experience
Qualified Solicitor in England & Wales
3+ years PQE in family/matrimonial law (flexible depending on experience)
Strong experience handling privately funded matrimonial matters
Excellent knowledge of divorce, financial remedies, and children law
Ability to manage a caseload independently
Strong organisational and communication skills
Personal Attributes
Highly empathetic with a client-first approach
Professional and discreet in handling sensitive matters
Confident and personable communicator
Well-organised with strong attention to detail
Passionate about delivering high-quality legal support
Desirable Experience
Advocacy experience (not essential)
Mediation training or experience
Existing client following or referral network
Experience within a busy regional or high street firm
What’s on Offer
Competitive salary and benefits package
Supportive and collaborative working environment
High-quality private client work
Opportunity to play a key role in a growing department
Career progression opportunities within an expanding firm
Why Apply?

This is a fantastic opportunity to join an ambitious and expanding firm where you can make a meaningful difference to clients’ lives while progressing your career in a supportive environment.

If you’re looking for a role where your expertise, empathy, and professionalism are truly valued - this could be the perfect move.