Private Client Partner

JR United Kingdom; Slough; Hybrid; GBP 100,000 - 140,000; Full time

Job summary

A national firm in the UK is seeking a Partner-level Private Client lawyer, offering a unique opportunity to lead an established practice. The role includes advising on various legal matters for a loyal client base, with the possibility of flexible working arrangements and a supportive team environment.

Benefits

Private medical insurance

Flexible working options

Cycle to work scheme

Enhanced parental leave

Employee assistance programme

Qualifications

• Minimum 8 years PQE in Private Client law, ideally in a reputable firm.
• Confident communicator with a proactive, relationship-led approach.
• Trusted advisor able to inspire confidence in clients.

Responsibilities

• Advising clients on wills, estate planning, probate, and trusts.
• Maintaining and growing the existing client base through strong service.
• Acting as the firm’s key figure for Private Client matters with full autonomy.

Skills

Technical ability

Communication

Relationship management

Independent working

Client confidence

Education

8+ years’ PQE in Private Client work

STEP membership (preferred)

Job description

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This national firm is widely regarded for its specialist legal services across a diverse client base, blending a heritage of trusted legal excellence with a contemporary, people-first culture. With offices in key UK cities, they combine scale with a strong sense of community and collegiality.

Their Private Client team operates as a distinct business within the firm — delivering tailored legal solutions to a loyal and growing client base of professionals, families, and private individuals. This is a firm that values long-term relationships, pragmatic advice, and collaborative growth. They now seek a successor to a well-respected Partner, offering a rare opportunity to lead and develop an established Private Client practice.

The Role

This is a Partner-level appointment (or potentially Legal Director for the right individual) for a technically excellent and client-focused private client lawyer. Based in London or Southampton the successful candidate will take over a loyal portfolio of existing clients and professional referrers — with the opportunity to grow the practice in a supported, collegiate environment.

This is not a traditional HNW private client role — the work typically involves UK-domiciled clients with modest estates (typically £500k–£3m), including professionals, family business owners, and high-level NHS and charity executives. The department receives a steady flow of instructions through cross-referral channels.

This position offers genuine autonomy and the chance to make a practice your own — whether you’re currently operating in a regional firm and looking for a final long-term home, or you’re an ambitious senior lawyer ready for a platform that gives you the space to grow and lead.

Team & Culture

You’ll be inheriting the work and professional network of a highly regarded Partner who is stepping down after a long and successful career. You'll be supported by a highly competent, long-standing PA who is familiar with the client base and transactional processes, providing efficient and reliable day-to-day assistance.

The London office (c.80 people) is modern, open-plan, and fosters a genuinely supportive and friendly working environment. Collaboration across practice areas is strongly encouraged. You won’t be expected to manage a team, but you will be the key figure in developing and shaping the future of the private client service.

Key Responsibilities

• Advising clients on wills, estate planning, probate and estate administration, and trusts
• Drafting and advising on powers of attorney and associated documents
• Maintaining and growing the existing client base through strong service delivery and networking
• Building internal relationships to generate cross-referral opportunities from within the firm
• Representing the firm externally through events and professional networks
• Acting as the firm’s key figure for Private Client matters, with full autonomy over strategy and development

Required Skills & Experience

• Minimum 8+ years’ PQE in Private Client work, ideally gained in a well-regarded regional or City firm
• STEP membership preferred but not essential
• Excellent technical ability and a strong grasp of the practical application of private client law
• A confident communicator with a proactive, relationship-led approach
• Comfortable working independently and managing your own caseload with minimal supervision
• A trusted adviser who can inspire confidence in clients and colleagues alike

Benefits and Working Options

• Salary starting at £100,000+ (negotiable, depending on experience and following)
• Flexible working supported — minimum two days per week in-office
• Open to part-time arrangements (3–4 days per week)
• Offices across the UK; London and Southampton preferred, but open to wider locations
• Private medical insurance, critical illness cover, enhanced parental leave, cycle to work, employee assistance programme
• Modern, collegiate working environment with a flat structure and open-plan layout
• No formal bonus scheme, but generous salary and realistic chargeable hour targets

Why This Role?

This is a rare opportunity to join a national firm with an established platform for Private Client work — without the usual HNW pressures. You’ll inherit a loyal and steady stream of work, have access to cross-departmental referrals, and the autonomy to grow your practice in a way that suits your strengths and style. Whether you’re planning your final move or ready to step up into a leadership role, this firm offers security, flexibility, and professional satisfaction.

Interviews will be arranged confidentially and flexibly. If you’d like to explore this opportunity, or simply have a no-obligation conversation, please get in touch. Initial calls can be arranged discreetly and outside of hours if preferred.