Private Client Solicitor

JMC Legal Recruitment; High Wycombe; On-site; GBP 125,000 - 150,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading legal firm in High Wycombe is seeking an Experienced Private Client Solicitor with at least 2 years PQE. This role offers an opportunity to work with high-net-worth clients on estate planning, trusts, and probate matters in a supportive environment. The firm values professional development and offers a competitive salary along with a strong focus on work-life balance.

Benefits

Competitive salary and benefits package

Opportunities for professional development

Work-life balance with flexible working options

Qualifications

• Minimum of 2 years PQE in private client work with experience in estate planning.
• Proven track record in probate administration and drafting complex wills.
• Knowledge of lifetime trusts and the administration of ongoing trusts.

Responsibilities

• Take testamentary instructions and draft wills effectively.
• Handle probate and manage the administration of estates.
• Advise clients on lifetime trusts and powers of attorney.

Skills

Estate planning

Probate administration

Trusts administration

Powers of attorney

Strong communication skills

Education

Qualified solicitor with minimum 2 years PQE

Job description

Private Client Solicitor

A highly regarded law firm is currently seeking an Experienced Private Client Solicitor to join its dynamic team. This is an exciting opportunity for a qualified solicitor with at least 2 years of Post-Qualification Experience (PQE) to build on their expertise and further their career in a supportive and professional environment. The firm is well-known for providing high-quality legal services, with a primary focus on delivering tailored solutions to clients in the private client space.

About the Team

The private client team currently comprises 3 fee earners, including two fully qualified members of the Society of Trust and Estate Practitioners (STEP). Known for its depth of expertise, the team offers a collaborative environment that promotes professional growth. The firm handles a large number of high-net-worth and technical estate planning matters, alongside complex trust and probate issues. Many of the cases have a cross-border element, making the work both challenging and rewarding.

Role Overview

The firm is looking for an ambitious and experienced solicitor who is eager to join a leading team and further develop their expertise in private client matters. The successful candidate will have a solid foundation in estate planning, trusts, and probate matters, along with a strong commitment to delivering excellent client service. While STEP qualification is not essential, the firm strongly encourages candidates who are already STEP qualified or those looking to gain the qualification in the near future.

Key Responsibilities

• Taking Testamentary Instructions and Drafting Wills: The solicitor will be responsible for taking instructions from clients to draft their wills, ensuring that complex estates are planned effectively. This includes drafting wills that incorporate life interest trusts and discretionary trusts as part of comprehensive estate planning.
• Probate and Estate Administration: The solicitor will handle both testate and intestate estates, taking probate instructions and managing the administration of estates. This includes liaising with beneficiaries, asset gathering, paying off liabilities, and ensuring the estate is distributed according to the client's wishes.
• Lifetime Trusts: The solicitor will advise clients on the use of lifetime trusts, including family trusts and bespoke arrangements. They will also assist with the administration of ongoing trusts, ensuring compliance with legal requirements and the wishes of the settlor.
• Powers of Attorney: The solicitor will be responsible for advising clients on creating and using various powers of attorney, including lasting powers of attorney (LPA), general powers of attorney, and advanced directives. They will also draft these documents, ensuring they meet the client's needs and intentions.
• Court of Protection: Any experience with the Court of Protection would be a plus. The solicitor may assist in advising on the appointment of deputies, handling applications, and managing the affairs of clients who lack capacity.
• Cross-Border Estates: The ideal candidate will have experience or an interest in working with clients on cross-border estate planning issues. This includes advising on international tax planning, overseas wills, and the impact of foreign laws on estate administration.

Candidate Requirements

• A minimum of 2 years PQE in private client work, with strong experience in estate planning, trusts, probate, and related areas.
• Experience drafting complex wills, including life interest and discretionary trusts.
• A proven track record in probate administration, including handling both testate and intestate estates.
• Knowledge of lifetime trusts and the administration of ongoing trusts.
• Experience in advising clients on powers of attorney, including LPAs and general powers of attorney.
• Court of Protection experience is highly desirable.
• An understanding or interest in working on cross-border estate planning matters.
• Strong communication and client relationship-building skills.
• A proactive, solution-oriented approach to legal work with attention to detail.
• STEP qualification is preferred but not essential, and candidates looking to pursue STEP certification are encouraged to apply.

Why Join This Firm?

• Competitive salary and benefits package based on experience.
• A supportive and collaborative work environment with opportunities for professional development and training.
• Exposure to high-net-worth clients and complex estates, including cross-border issues.
• A strong focus on work-life balance, offering a flexible working environment to accommodate personal and professional commitments.
• Clear career progression opportunities, including support towards STEP qualification.
• A structured professional development program and access to a network of experienced professionals in the field.