Associate - Disputes & Investigations

Simmons & Simmons' Disputes & Investigations practice is recognised for advising clients on complex, high-value and business-critical disputes across a broad range of sectors, including financial institutions, asset management, technology, life sciences and healthcare.

Our lawyers work seamlessly across jurisdictions to help clients manage commercial risk, resolve disputes and navigate investigations and regulatory challenges. The team advises on a diverse range of matters, including commercial litigation, shareholder and contractual disputes, investigations, enforcement actions, asset recovery and financial services litigation. We regularly act on matters with an international dimension, working closely with colleagues across our global network to deliver strategic, commercial solutions for clients.

Combining technical excellence with deep sector expertise, the practice is trusted by leading domestic and international organisations to handle some of their most complex and business-critical contentious matters.

The Role

We are seeking a talented Associate with 1-4 years' post-qualification experience to join our Disputes & Investigations team in our growing Bristol office.

This role offers the opportunity to develop a broad commercial disputes practice while working on sophisticated and often high-profile matters for leading domestic and international clients. You will advise on a wide variety of contentious matters, including contractual and shareholder disputes, High Court litigation, investigations, enforcement actions and other complex commercial disputes. You will also gain exposure to disputes involving financial institutions, asset managers and other regulated businesses, including matters arising from banking, finance and investment-related arrangements.

Working closely with partners and senior lawyers, you will take ownership of significant aspects of matters, including drafting pleadings and witness evidence, managing disclosure exercises, developing case strategy, liaising directly with clients and coordinating with colleagues across multiple jurisdictions. The role provides excellent opportunities for responsibility, client exposure and career development within a collaborative and ambitious team environment.

Candidate Profile

We are interested in lawyers who demonstrate:

• 1-4 years' PQE gained within a leading commercial disputes, litigation or investigations practice.
• Experience handling a broad range of commercial disputes and contentious matters.
• Experience of financial services disputes, investigations, shareholder disputes, banking litigation, asset recovery or cross-border matters would be advantageous.
• Strong technical ability, sound commercial judgement and excellent analytical skills.
• Outstanding drafting, communication and organisational skills.
• The confidence to manage workstreams independently and build strong client relationships.
• A collaborative mindset and enthusiasm for working as part of an international team.

Here at Simmons & Simmons

Simmons & Simmons is a place where dynamic minds thrive. Our culture is built on work that matters, you will work on inspirational and thought-provoking projects, using your influence to create positive impact for our clients, society and the planet. We also ensure that everyone’s voice is heard from day one, irrespective of job title, qualification, or background. You’ll be encouraged to have an enquiring mind and share ideas that can drive the firm forward. Through innovative learning and development opportunities, you will be provided with a platform to excel, enabling you to exceed your career ambitions and do things you never thought were possible.

Key Highlights:

• Competitive compensation package, including bonuses, private medical insurance, and pension contribution.
• A global skills academy offering extensive learning opportunities for all employees.
• A hybrid working model, requiring a minimum of three days in-office, subject to role and client needs.
• Integration of traditional legal expertise with innovative Simmons & Simmons Solutions.
• Recognition as a Stonewall Top Global Employer and a Top 75 Employer for Social Mobility.
• Vibrant social and sports committees, as well as art collections featuring renowned artists.
• The introduction of a Strategic Advisory Council to drive strategic initiatives in line with our mission.

Equal opportunities

We are dedicated to fostering an inclusive environment, offering equal employment opportunities to all applicants irrespective of sex, race, ethnicity, religion or belief, age, disability, sexual orientation, gender reassignment, and more. Flexible working arrangements are supported, and we strive to make our roles accessible to all. Our employee networks offer additional support, detailed in our D&I Information booklet provided during the recruitment process.

We value diversity and encourage applications from those who are passionate and willing to grow with us, even if not all requirements are met. Your unique experiences and perspectives are welcomed here.

For more information or to apply, please contact our Recruitment Team or visit our career page.

Recruitment Agencies

We prioritise direct sourcing and referrals, engaging with our preferred agency partners where support is required. Unsolicited CVs submitted without the prior agreement of the recruitment team will not be deemed a valid introduction.

Please contact the recruitment team if you have any questions.