Court of Protection Senior Associate (Health & Welfare), National Specialist & Top Tier L500

Senior Associate (Court of Protection Health & Welfare), Reading

Award Winning, National & Top Tier Legal 500 Law Firm

A fantastic opportunity for a Senior Associate Solicitor to join the specialist Court of Protection team of an award-winning Legal 500 law firm with offices across the UK.

This is a particularly good opportunity for an experienced practitioner looking to manage a specialised Health & Welfare caseload, take on team leadership responsibilities, and drive business development within a supportive, flexible, and outcome-focused environment.

The Role

You will proactively manage a caseload of Court of Protection matters relating to health and welfare while actively supporting the Team Leader and deputising in their absence.

The role offers direct involvement in complex, high-profile matters alongside team management responsibilities, including 1-to-1 monthly meetings, compliance, and contributing to the development of the firm's case management system.

There is also an expectation that you will take a proactive approach to business development, giving you the opportunity to build referral networks, secure work, and raise your profile within the field.

Your work is likely to include:

• Section 21A and Section 16 applications, along with general COP H&W queries
• Care funding issues and related public law / Education law matters
• Acting as a caseworker under the Mental Health Legal Aid Contract
• Direct court representation, advocacy, and instructing Counsel
• Financial control, accurate time recording, and prompt billing in line with COP rules and targets

About You

The ideal candidate will have:

• Approximately 7+ years’ PQE with extensive experience in complex Court of Protection matters
• Law Society Mental Health Accreditation (preferred, or a commitment to obtain it)
• Demonstrated ability to coach, mentor, and develop team members to reach their potential
• A strong understanding of the Mental Health Legal Aid Contract and LAA requirements
• Excellent communication, teamwork, attention to detail, and initiative
• Confidence in networking, building referral sources, and driving cross-referrals
• A commitment to firm values: Cooperation, Courage, Excellence, Integrity, and Kindness

The Firm

You will be joining a progressive, nationally recognized practice whose mission is to empower clients to achieve everything from basic needs to their wildest dreams.

The firm offers a flexible, outcome-based working environment rather than a standard 9-to-5 structure. You will be supported with training, shared knowledge, and a non-judgmental atmosphere where teamwork and client confidentiality are paramount.

Benefits

• Competitive salary plus firm-wide annual bonus scheme
• Flexible, agile working arrangements (35 hours/week)
• 25 days’ holiday (FTE) + 3 days off at Christmas + 5 extra days paid leave every 5 years
• Birthday perks: £50 gift card plus a late start or early finish
• Christmas gift card (£50) and seasonal closure
• 4% pension employer contribution (Standard Life) and Life Assurance (3x salary)
• 24/7 Employee Assistance Program, GP helpline, and free annual flu injection
• Vivup well-being portal, Tastecard app discounts, and Electric Car Salary Sacrifice / Cycle to Work schemes