Private Client Lawyer - Legal 500 Firm - Durham - Full Time OR Part Time

QED Legal LLP; North East; Hybrid; GBP 40,000 - 65,000; Full time

Job summary

A respected law firm in the North East is seeking a Private Client Lawyer. This role involves managing private client cases, including wills and estate planning, as well as contributing to the team's development. The firm offers a hybrid working arrangement, flexible hours, and a competitive salary of £40,000–£65,000 per annum. Ideal candidates will possess a solicitor or legal executive qualification and have excellent communication and organizational skills. Opportunities for career progression and professional development are also available.

Benefits

Bonus scheme

Free onsite parking

Healthcare

Enhanced family leave

Qualifications

• Solicitor or legal executive qualification required.
• STEP qualification preferred but not essential.
• Proactive and organized approach to managing caseload.

Responsibilities

• Manage own private client caseload including wills and probate.
• Contribute to team development and regional profile.

Skills

Attention to detail

Communication skills

Organizational skills

Collaborative attitude

Education

Qualification as a solicitor or legal executive

STEP qualification

Job description

Private Client Lawyer

Wills | Estates | Trusts

Durham

At a Glance

• Roles: Solicitor
• Experience level: NQ+
• Salary: £40,000– £65,000 per annum (depending on experience)
• Working pattern: Hybrid working with flexible hours
• Location: Durham
• Benefits: Bonus scheme, free onsite parking, healthcare, enhanced family leave

The Opportunity

A respected and well-established law firm in the North East is looking to appoint one or more Private Client Lawyers as part of continued team growth. This is an excellent opportunity to join a highly skilled and collaborative private client team that places equal value on technical excellence, empathy, and long‑term client relationships.

Private client work is personal, and this firm is known for treating it that way. The team supports individuals and families through life’s more difficult and sensitive moments, whether navigating bereavement, administering complex estates, or planning for the future—acting as a trusted and compassionate advisor throughout.

The Team

You will be joining a well‑structured and highly experienced private client department. Every member of the team is STEP qualified, and mentoring and knowledge‑sharing are central to how the team operates.

The department advises individuals, families, and business owners on a broad range of matters, from high‑value estates and trusts to succession and lifetime planning. The team is known across the region for its technical strength, consistency, and outstanding client care.

Key Responsibilities

• Manage your own private client caseload, including:
  • Wills and probate
  • Estate administration
  • Trusts and estate planning
  • Lasting Powers of Attorney
  • Court of Protection matters
• Contribute to the continued development and profile of the team across the North East

Why Consider This Role?

• Join a highly skilled, close‑knit private client team with strong leadership
• Benefit from hybrid working, flexible hours, and a grown‑up approach to work‑life balance
• Free onsite parking at the main office
• Access to a bonus scheme in addition to a competitive salary
• Clear opportunities for career progression and professional development
• Be part of a forward‑thinking firm that genuinely values people and culture

About You

• Qualification as a solicitor or legal executive
• STEP qualification (preferred but not essential)
• A proactive, organised approach to managing your caseload
• High attention to detail and pride in delivering quality work
• Excellent communication skills and a warm, professional manner with clients
• A collaborative attitude and willingness to support the wider team

Next Steps

This is a rare opportunity to join a high‑calibre private client team within a respected regional law firm. The firm is open to appointing more than one lawyer.

Get in touch with Beth Livings at QED Legal for a confidential discussion or to apply.