Newly Qualified Contentious Probate Solicitor

JMC Legal Recruitment; Bristol; Hybrid; GBP 40,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job summary

Join a forward-thinking law firm in Central Bristol as a Contentious Probate Lawyer. This role offers the chance to work on high-value disputes related to wills, trusts, and estates, while being part of a nationally recognized team. With a commitment to employee wellbeing and professional development, the firm fosters a supportive culture and encourages career growth. Enjoy flexible working arrangements and the opportunity to build your own caseload under experienced guidance. If you are a proactive communicator with a passion for business development, this is the perfect opportunity for you.

Qualifications

• 0-4 years PQE with a background in litigation or private client matters.
• Proactive communicator with a desire to specialize in contentious probate.

Responsibilities

• Manage a caseload of complex disputes related to wills and estates.
• Collaborate with internal departments on advisory work.

Skills

Litigation

Contentious Probate

Communication

Business Development

Education

Qualified Solicitor or FCILEx

Job description

Contentious Probate Lawyer (NQ - 4 Years PQE)

Location: Central Bristol | Type: Full-time | Hybrid Working Available Post-Probation

An established and forward-thinking firm with a strong presence in the South West is seeking a Newly Qualified to 4 years' PQE Solicitor or Legal Executive to join its reputable Contentious Probate team. This opportunity has arisen due to sustained growth in client demand and the department's strategic expansion.

Sitting within a broader Dispute Resolution practice, the Contentious Probate team is nationally recognised for its expertise and ranked in The Legal 500. The successful candidate will have the opportunity to work on a wide range of complex and high-value disputes, while contributing to a dynamic and collaborative environment.

The Role Includes Exposure To:

• Disputes relating to Wills, Trusts, and Estates, including challenges to validity based on undue influence, lack of capacity, and fraud.
• Applications under the Inheritance (Provision for Family and Dependants) Act 1975.
• Burial, ashes, and funeral-related disputes.
• Issues arising from lifetime transactions, including claims involving joint ownership, deathbed gifts, and resulting trusts.
• Contentious probate litigation involving executors and trustees, including breach of trust and removal applications.
• Professional negligence claims arising from will and trust drafting or estate planning.
• Advisory work in collaboration with internal departments such as Family, Court of Protection, and Estate Administration.

The successful candidate will have the chance to build and manage their own caseload under the guidance of an experienced Head of Department, while also providing strategic input across the wider disputes team.

The Ideal Candidate:

• Qualified Solicitor or FCILEx (0-4 years PQE).
• Background in litigation and/or private client matters with a desire to specialise in contentious probate.
• Proactive, confident communicator with a genuine interest in business development.
• Membership of ACTAPS is advantageous, but those willing to pursue accreditation will be fully supported.

Why Apply?

This is a unique opportunity to join a values-driven firm recognised for its commitment to employee wellbeing and professional development. The successful candidate will benefit from high-quality work, a supportive team culture, and a genuine focus on career growth. Flexible working is embraced, with hybrid arrangements available following probation.