Real Estate Disputes Associate

W&P Partners Legal Recruitment is proud to partner with a well-established and highly regarded regional law firm on the appointment of an Associate / Senior Associate (2–6 PQE) within its Real Estate Disputes team, based in Kent.

We are currently seeking a talented and commercially minded lawyer to join a specialist disputes team with a strong reputation for handling complex, high-value property matters. This is an excellent opportunity to work within a collaborative and supportive environment, advising a diverse client base across a broad range of contentious real estate issues.

Role Overview:

You will join a close-knit and forward-thinking Real Estate Disputes team, recognised for delivering strategic, commercially focused advice. The team works closely with transactional Real Estate colleagues to provide a seamless, joined-up service to clients.

In this role, you will manage a varied caseload of real estate disputes, including:

• Commercial landlord & tenant disputes (rent arrears, lease renewals, dilapidations, breach of covenant, forfeiture)
• Commercial service charge disputes
• Property-related insolvency matters
• Development-related disputes (overage, rights of light, easements, restrictive covenants, possession claims)

You will also be involved in:

• Advising on dispute avoidance, risk management, and litigation strategy
• Drafting pleadings, witness statements, and settlement agreements
• Managing proceedings in the County Court, High Court, and First-tier Tribunal
• Engaging in Alternative Dispute Resolution, including mediation
• Collaborating with Real Estate colleagues on strategic matters
• Supporting junior team members (where appropriate)
• Contributing to business development and client relationship growth

Qualifications and Experience:

• 2–6 years’ PQE in property litigation / real estate disputes
• Strong experience in landlord & tenant disputes and broader property litigation matters
• Proven ability to manage a varied caseload with appropriate supervision
• Excellent drafting, communication, and client-handling skills
• Commercial awareness with a pragmatic and solutions-focused approach
• A collaborative mindset and desire to work within a supportive team
• Interest in business development and building client relationships
• Experience supervising junior lawyers (for Senior Associate level)

W&P Partners Legal Recruitment is committed to equal opportunities and welcomes applications from all suitably qualified candidates. Hybrid and flexible working arrangements are available, alongside strong career progression opportunities and a competitive benefits package.