The job market for lawyers in the litigation field is changing a lot in 2025. Kieran Moore is a legal recruiter at Oculus Legal Group working in areas like East Anglia, Cambridgeshire, Milton Keynes, Northampton and Bedfordshire, he’s Identified some important trends that anyone looking for a job should know about.
Demand for Specialised Skills
The demand for litigation professionals with specialised skills is on the rise. Firms are increasingly seeking candidates with expertise in niche areas such as contentious probate, insolvency, intellectual property disputes, and real estate litigation. This trend is driven by the growing complexity of legal cases and the need for highly skilled professionals who can handle intricate legal matters. If you’re an expert in one of these areas, you’ll be in demand.
Growth of Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR)
With the increasing backlog of court cases, there is a growing emphasis on Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) methods such as mediation and arbitration. ADR offers a faster, more cost-effective way to resolve disputes, and firms are actively seeking candidates with experience in these areas. Notable firms like Birketts LLP and Mills & Reeve LLP are leading the way in promoting ADR practices. Candidates with ADR expertise are in high demand and can expect to find ample opportunities in this evolving landscape.
Regional Variations in Job Opportunities
The demand of litigation roles can vary significantly by region. While some areas have seen a decline in litigation vacancies, others have experienced an increase. With certain regions thriving in the litigation market, candidates may benefit from considering opportunities in a variety of regions to enhance their prospects of finding the right role. Milton Keynes, Northampton and Cambridgeshire have shown a steady demand for litigation professionals, making them attractive regions for job seekers. Firms such as Freeths LLP and Howes Percival LLP are renowned for their high-quality litigation practices, specifically Property Litigation in Milton Keynes.
Importance of Networking and Professional Development
In the competitive litigation market, networking and continuous professional development are crucial for career advancement. Candidates should actively participate in legal conferences, seminars, and professional associations to build connections and stay updated on industry trends. Engaging in ongoing education and training can also enhance a candidate’s marketability and open doors to new opportunities. Many firms are known for their commitment to professional development and offer various programs to support their employees’ growth.
Conclusion
Navigating the litigation recruitment market in 2025 requires a strategic approach. Candidates should focus on developing specialised skills and staying informed about regional job trends. By understanding these key trends, candidates can position themselves effectively in the competitive legal market and secure rewarding career opportunities.
Opportunities for litigation professionals are increasing across East Anglia, Cambridgeshire, Milton Keynes, Luton, and Northampton. There is a notable range of movement, from Partner-level hires in contentious probate at Top 200 law firms in Cambridgeshire, to NQ contentious probate hires in Bedfordshire. Mid-level real estate litigation roles are also on the rise, with active opportunities at multiple Tier 1 ranked property litigation firms and Top 150 national firms.
