Dispute Resoluton & Litigation Associate at Bowmans (Law Firm)

We are looking to recruit a 3-4 years PQE commercial litigator to join our Dispute Resolution team. As an Associate you will assume day-to-day responsibility for handling contentious and advisory matters including commercial, civil and land disputes by providing high-quality legal research and drafting, strategic advice, and representing clients before courts. Working closely with partners and senior associates, you will mentor junior lawyers and play a key role in achieving the firm’s strategic objective of being the pre-eminent law firm in Africa.

Key responsibilities:

• Drafting and reviewing of litigation documents including pleadings, notices of motion, supporting and replying affidavits, witness statements, written submissions, and formal correspondence to courts, opposing counsel, and clients.
• Conducting in-depth legal research and analysis on complex points of law and preparing comprehensive legal opinions and strategic advice on matters arising in commercial litigation and dispute resolution.
• Advising clients on litigation strategy, case assessment, risk exposure, and the merits of claims and defences, including evaluating prospects of success and potential remedies.
• Preparing for and attending client consultations and conferences with counsel, including taking instructions, preparing briefing materials, and coordinating with external advocates.
• Reviewing, interpreting, and advising on new legislation, case law developments, and procedural rules relevant to the firm's dispute resolution practice.
• Representing clients in court proceedings, including attending hearings, mentions, directions, and trials before subordinate and superior courts, and where appropriate, conducting advocacy.
• Managing and coordinating alternative dispute resolution processes, including arbitration, mediation, and negotiation, with a view to achieving favourable settlements for clients.
• Assuming full conduct of matters under partner supervision, including case planning, evidence gathering, instructing experts, managing timelines, coordinating with witnesses, and ensuring compliance with court deadlines and procedural requirements.
• Supervising and mentoring junior associates, pupil advocates, and paralegals, including reviewing their work product and providing constructive feedback.
• Contributing to business development initiatives, including preparing pitch materials, attending client events, and identifying opportunities to expand existing client relationships.

Experience and Qualifications:

• Educational Background: LLB degree with strong academic record, admission to practice in Kenya, and holds a current Practicing Certificate.
• Professional Experience: 3-4 years’ post admission commercial litigation and alternative dispute resolution experience in a top tier or medium-sized law firm.
• Technical Excellence: Have strong advocacy skills and experience appearing and conducting court matters before superior courts.
• Commercial acumen: Exceptional drafting, negotiation and analytical skills, coupled with demonstratable track record of supporting senior lawyers involved in complex commercial disputes for corporate and multinational clients. High level of accuracy and attention to detail.
• Communication and Interpersonal skills: excellent communication, presentation, research, and analytical skills and the ability to work in a large and dynamic team.