As one of the UK’s leading law firms, we’re here for the people and businesses who rely on us at life’s important moments - made possible by our colleagues who bring the expertise, judgement and care that makes the difference.

Our colleagues bring Irwin Mitchell to life every day, so it matters that you feel valued from the very first day and are trusted with the responsibility, in the right culture, to do the best work of your careers. Everyone’s path here is different, but we share a desire to help our business make a real impact.

Where possible we will support our colleagues to work in a way that works for them, for us and most importantly our clients. Please speak to a member of our Recruitment and Onboarding team for more information.

The Southern Real Estate team advises on a broad range of commercial property matters, acting for developers, investors, occupiers, financial institutions and landowners across a variety of sectors. The team has particular expertise in development, investment, asset management, residential and mixed-use schemes, and strategic land matters. Based across Southampton, Brighton, London and Gatwick, the team combines strong regional connections with the support and reach of one of the UK's largest real estate practices.

Working closely with Partner, Hannah Mercer, the team is known for delivering commercially focused, pragmatic advice and building long-standing relationships with clients. Working collaboratively with colleagues across Planning, Construction, Banking, Tax and other specialist teams, the Real Estate team supports clients through the full lifecycle of their property transactions and projects.

As an Associate, you'll play a key role in the continued growth and success of the team, with responsibilities including:

• Managing a varied caseload of commercial real estate matters, including acquisitions and disposals, development projects, landlord and tenant work, asset management and investment transactions.
• Supporting senior team members transactions from inception through to completion, ensuring matters are delivered efficiently and commercially.
• Supporting business development initiatives, identifying opportunities to strengthen existing client relationships and win new work.
• Collaborating with colleagues across the firm to provide integrated advice and deliver the best outcomes for clients.

Supporting and mentoring junior lawyers, helping to develop their technical knowledge and commercial understanding.

We're looking for an ambitious and commercially minded real estate lawyer who is keen to build their career within a highly regarded national team.
You'll ideally have:
•    Around 4+ years' PQE gained within a recognised Commercial Property or Real Estate practice.
•    Strong technical experience across a broad range of commercial real estate matters, ideally including development work.
•    Excellent client relationship and stakeholder management skills.
•    A genuine interest in business development and growing long-term client and referrer relationships.
•    Strong organisational and project management skills, with the ability to manage multiple matters simultaneously.
•    A collaborative approach and a desire to contribute to the ongoing success and growth of the team.

• 25 days' holiday as standard, rising to 28 days depending on role level, plus bank holidays and the option to purchase additional leave.
• Opportunities to share in our success through annual pay and bonus review processes for eligible colleagues.
• Health and wellbeing support, including Westfield Health and Digital GP access. 
• Competitive pension arrangements to help you plan for the future. 
• Two paid volunteering days every year to support causes that matter to you. 
• Access to a range of colleague discounts and lifestyle benefits to support you both inside and outside of work.

We also offer a wide range of well-being initiatives to encourage positive mental health both in and out of the workplace and to make sure you’re fully supported.  

In 2026, Irwin Mitchell was recognised in the Sunday Times Best Places to Work guide and was the only law firm included in the 'Very Big' organisation category

Our responsible business programmes are fundamental to who we are and our purpose. We’re committed to being a diverse and inclusive workplace where our colleagues can flourish, and we have established a number of inclusion network groups across our business to support this aim. 

Our commitment to Social Responsibility, community investment activity and tackling climate change is a fundamental part of who we are. It’s made up of four strands: Our People, Our Community, Our Environment and Our Pro Bono.

We want every candidate to have a positive, fair and transparent recruitment experience. If you require any support or reasonable adjustments throughout the recruitment process, please speak to a member of our Recruitment & Onboarding team or contact Recruitment@IrwinMitchell.com

Artificial Intelligence (AI) is becoming an increasingly common part of modern working life. If you choose to use AI tools as part of your application or interview preparation, please review our AI in Recruitment Candidate Guidance https://careers.irwinmitchell.com/file/downloadfile/AIcandidate/PDF

As part of joining the Irwin Mitchell Group, all successful applicants are required to complete our employment screening process. We carry out pre employment screening to establish your eligibility to work in the UK, and understand any criminal records or adverse financial history.

Our onboarding processes are designed to help us maintain the high standards of trust, integrity and professionalism expected by our colleagues, to  protect the interests of the Group, clients, partners and other stakeholders.

Checks are conducted by trusted 3rd parties and the employment screening process will fully comply with Data Protection and other applicable laws.

Irwin Mitchell LLP is an equal opportunity employer.