Private Client Solicitor

Role Overview

• Manage a mixed caseload of Private Client matters from instruction to conclusion, including drafting wills, administering estates, obtaining probate/grant of representation, handling intestacy and advising on estate administration and tax matters.
• Advise clients on lasting powers of attorney (LPAs), deputyship applications, end‑of‑life planning and capacity issues, preparing documentation and guiding clients through registration and court procedures where necessary.
• Provide clear, practical and empathetic advice to vulnerable clients and families on estate planning, inheritance tax mitigation, lifetime transfers and succession planning, working with accountants and other advisers as required.
• Draft, prepare and review wills, codicils, deeds of variation and related documents ensuring accuracy, compliance and use of firm precedents where appropriate.
• Conduct probate procedures including preparing and filing probate applications, dealing with HMRC enquiries, distributing estates, obtaining and reviewing estate accounts and closing matters with audit‑ready files.
• Undertake client identification and AML checks, maintain clear records and ensure compliance with firm policies and regulatory obligations throughout the matter lifecycle.
• Liaise with executors, beneficiaries, trustees, banks, third‑party advisers and external counsel to resolve issues and progress matters efficiently.
• Use case management and document management systems to maintain up‑to‑date matter records, manage files, produce templates and promote digitisation and process improvements.
• Support business development activities including client relationship management, cross‑selling of services, preparation of costs estimates and contribution to team knowledge sharing and training.
• Escalate complex or high‑risk matters appropriately and instruct specialists where required to protect client interests and firm reputation.

Requirements

• Qualified solicitor (or equivalent) with substantial Private Client experience, typically 3+ years post‑qualification experience (or equivalent) handling wills, probate and LPAs.
• Strong technical knowledge of estate administration, inheritance tax, trusts and capacity legislation with demonstrable experience of probate applications and estate distributions.
• Excellent drafting and document preparation skills with meticulous attention to detail and the ability to produce clear, client‑facing documents.
• High level of client care and empathy when dealing with vulnerable or bereaved clients, with strong communication and interpersonal skills.
• Good organisational and time management skills with the ability to manage competing priorities, progress matters to tight deadlines and maintain audit‑ready files.
• Competence with case management systems, Microsoft Office and document management platforms; willingness to support digital workflows and process improvements.
• Commercial awareness, strong problem‑solving skills and the ability to work collaboratively with fee earners, support staff and external advisers to deliver excellent outcomes.
• Commitment to high ethical and regulatory standards and to fostering an inclusive, professional team culture.

Benefits

• Hybrid working