Litigation Solicitor / Chartered Legal Executive (NQ-5 PQE) – Exeter

Ruth Wagstaff Recruitment Ltd; Exeter; Hybrid; GBP 45,000 - 65,000; Full time

Job summary

Chadwick Nott is seeking a Solicitor or Chartered Legal Executive (0–5 PQE) to join its Dispute Resolution team in Exeter. The role offers hybrid working and the chance to handle high‑quality litigation for businesses, charities and individuals.

From day one, you’ll work under partners and senior lawyers on a varied caseload, with training to develop expertise in contentious trusts, probate, wills and general civil dispute resolution.

Qualifications

• Qualified Solicitors or Chartered Legal Executives with 0-5 years’ PQE.
• Practical, proactive approach to dispute resolution.
• Strong communicators with excellent client care skills.
• Organised and confident in managing their own workload.

Responsibilities

• Handle contentious trusts and probate matters.
• Disputed wills and inheritance disputes.
• Commercial litigation.
• Wider civil dispute resolution matters.

Skills

PQE 0-5 years

Practical approach

Client care

Organised workload

Education

Solicitor or Chartered Legal Executive

Job description

Litigation Solicitor / Chartered Legal Executive (NQ-5 PQE)
Exeter (Hybrid Working)
Competitive salary, dependent on experience

An ambitious and highly regarded Legal 500-recognised regional law firm, with multiple offices across the South West, is looking to appoint a Solicitor or Chartered Legal Executive (0-5 PQE) to join its growing Dispute Resolution team based in Exeter.

This is an excellent opportunity to join a team known for handling complex and high-quality litigation work on behalf of businesses, charities, institutions and high-net-worth individuals across the UK.

You’ll work closely with experienced partners and senior lawyers on a varied caseload, with a particular focus on:

• Contentious trusts and probate matters
• Disputed wills and inheritance claims
• Commercial litigation
• Wider civil dispute resolution matters

From day one, you’ll gain hands‑on responsibility for files while receiving the support and mentorship needed to develop your technical expertise and litigation skills. The firm actively encourages lawyers to build specialist knowledge and establish their own niche practice area over time.

Candidate Requirements

We’re keen to hear from candidates who are:

• Qualified Solicitors or Chartered Legal Executives with 0-5 years’ PQE
• Able to demonstrate a practical, proactive approach to dispute resolution
• Strong communicators with excellent client care skills
• Organised and confident in managing their own workload

Experience in contentious probate, trusts or inheritance disputes would be advantageous, but is by no means essential. Candidates with a broader litigation background who are keen to specialise will also be considered.

Why Join?

• Exposure to complex, high‑calibre litigation matters
• Structured training, mentoring and career development
• The opportunity to develop a specialist practice area
• Hybrid and flexible working arrangements
• A collaborative and friendly team environment
• Opportunities for business development, networking and community engagement

For more information about this role please contact Hannah Somers at Chadwick Nott.

(t) 0117 917 1929
(m) 07435 943574
(e) [e-mail]

At Chadwick Nott, we are committed to developing a diverse and inclusive culture as well as supporting our large client network achieve the same. We are an equal opportunities employer and encourage applications of all qualified candidates regardless of their age, sex, race, disability, sexual orientation, disability, culture or anything other personal characteristic. We champion and celebrate diversity in the workplace. Where a level of experience is indicated, please note that this is only a guideline.

Job Tenure: Permanent and Full-Time
Salary: Negotiable
Location: Exeter, Devon