Employment Solicitor Jobs in the UK | Career Guide & Job Opportunities | The Legists
Employment law has grown into one of the most dynamic and rewarding legal fields in the UK. Every business, from startups to multinational corporations, requires expert advice on employment rights, contracts, disputes, and workplace regulations. That demand creates a steady stream of employment solicitor jobs across the country.
At The Legists, we see many talented solicitors eager to build their careers in this area. Whether you’re a trainee, newly qualified, or experienced professional, this blog will guide you through everything you need to know about employment solicitor jobs in the UK—from qualifications and skills to salary expectations and how to land your dream job.
What Does an Employment Solicitor Do?
Understanding the Role
Employment solicitors advise both employers and employees on workplace legal issues. You’ll handle everything from contracts and negotiations to disputes and tribunal claims. Your work might involve:
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Drafting and reviewing employment contracts
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Advising on redundancies and dismissals
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Handling discrimination and harassment claims
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Guiding on workplace policies and compliance
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Representing clients in Employment Tribunals
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Negotiating settlement agreements
This field requires a balance of legal expertise and strong interpersonal skills because you often work closely with people facing stressful situations.
Who Do Employment Solicitors Work With?
Employment solicitors act for a diverse range of clients, including:
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Individual employees seeking legal advice or compensation
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Human Resources departments and business owners
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Trade unions and employee representatives
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Regulatory bodies and government agencies
This variety keeps the work stimulating and broadens your legal experience.
How to Qualify for Employment Solicitor Jobs in the UK
The Education and Training Pathway
To become an employment solicitor, you need to follow the standard UK legal qualification route:
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Obtain a qualifying law degree (LLB), or complete a non-law degree followed by the Graduate Diploma in Law (GDL).
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Pass the Legal Practice Course (LPC) or the Solicitors Qualifying Examination (SQE).
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Secure and complete a training contract or qualifying work experience (QWE) with a law firm or legal employer.
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Register and qualify as a solicitor with the Solicitors Regulation Authority (SRA).
During your training contract, seek a seat in employment law to gain practical experience in this specialism.
Specialising in Employment Law
While the qualification process is the same for all solicitors, specialising in employment law early helps build your career faster. You can also pursue additional training, such as:
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Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development (CIPD) courses for HR insights
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Employment law seminars and certifications
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Membership in professional bodies like the Employment Lawyers Association (ELA)
Such steps demonstrate your commitment and deepen your knowledge, making you a stronger candidate for employment solicitor jobs.
Essential Skills for Employment Solicitors
Legal Expertise and Analytical Thinking
Employment law constantly evolves, with new regulations, case law, and statutory updates. You must stay informed to provide accurate and timely advice. Additionally, you’ll need excellent analytical skills to assess complex situations and offer clear legal strategies.
Communication and Negotiation
You’ll communicate with clients who often face emotional and stressful workplace disputes. Explaining legal concepts in plain English and actively listening to client concerns makes a big difference.
Moreover, employment solicitors frequently negotiate settlements to avoid lengthy tribunal hearings. Strong negotiation skills help secure fair agreements efficiently.
Problem-Solving and Time Management
Employment cases can involve tight deadlines and multiple parties. You need to manage your workload efficiently, prioritize tasks, and find practical solutions tailored to each client’s needs.
Typical Work Environment and Daily Activities
Law Firms and Chambers
Most employment solicitors work in private law firms, ranging from small boutique practices to large national firms. The work culture varies: smaller firms may offer closer client contact and broader responsibility, while larger firms may expose you to high-profile corporate cases.
In-House Legal Teams
Some employment solicitors join in-house legal teams within corporations. These roles focus on advising the business on HR policies, contracts, and risk management, and often involve working closely with management and HR departments.
Government and Public Sector
Opportunities also exist within government agencies, regulatory bodies, and trade unions. Here, solicitors often handle public sector employment matters or advise on policy and compliance issues.
A Day in the Life
On any given day, an employment solicitor might:
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Draft employment contracts or settlement agreements
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Prepare for or attend Employment Tribunal hearings
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Advise HR on disciplinary procedures
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Handle discrimination claims
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Respond to client emails and update case files
The role offers variety, intellectual challenge, and plenty of client interaction.
Salary Expectations for Employment Solicitors in the UK
Entry Level and Trainees
Trainee solicitors focusing on employment law generally earn between £22,000 and £40,000, depending on firm size and location.
Newly Qualified Solicitors
Once qualified, salaries usually rise to £40,000 – £55,000. Firms based in London or major cities tend to offer higher pay than regional practices.
Mid-Level and Senior Solicitors
With 3-5 years of post-qualification experience (PQE), employment solicitors can earn between £55,000 and £80,000, especially if they handle complex cases or high-profile clients.
Partners and Specialists
At the top end, senior partners and specialists can earn £100,000+, depending on their client base and firm’s success.
How to Find Employment Solicitor Jobs
Tailor Your CV and Cover Letter
Highlight your experience relevant to employment law. Emphasise:
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Seats in employment law during training
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Handling tribunal cases or settlements
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Knowledge of specific legislation (e.g., Equality Act 2010)
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Client communication and negotiation skills
Use clear, concise language and back your claims with achievements.
Networking and Professional Bodies
Join professional networks such as:
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Employment Lawyers Association (ELA)
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The Law Society’s Employment Law Committee
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Legal networking events and conferences
These offer valuable contacts and insights into job openings.
Work with Specialist Recruiters
Recruitment agencies like The Legists specialise in legal placements. We connect you with firms actively hiring employment solicitors. By partnering with us, you gain access to exclusive vacancies and personalised support in your job search.
How to Stand Out in Employment Solicitor Jobs
Gain Practical Experience
Practical tribunal experience and client handling give you a competitive edge. Volunteer or seek internships in employment law teams if you’re early in your career.
Stay Updated
Regularly follow employment law updates and case rulings. Consider subscribing to legal journals and attending webinars.
Develop Soft Skills
Empathy, resilience, and negotiation skills are crucial. Practice managing difficult conversations and mediations to boost your confidence.
Career Progression and Opportunities
Advancing Within a Firm
You can move from junior solicitor to senior associate, and eventually to partner or head of employment law. Leadership skills and client development become critical at senior levels.
Specialising Further
Some solicitors specialise in niche areas like:
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Trade union law
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Health and safety compliance
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Equalities and discrimination law
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Executive employment contracts
Such specialisations can lead to higher demand and salaries.
Alternative Careers
Employment solicitors can transition to:
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HR legal advisory roles
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