Private Client Solicitor

Hawthorne-Finch Talent Solutions; Redhill; Hybrid; GBP 60,000 - 75,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Hybrid working

STEP support

Healthcare

Job summary

Hawthorne-Finch Talent Solutions is seeking a Private Client Senior Associate (4+ PQE) for a leading Surrey law firm in the Reigate area. You will manage complex wills, estate planning, LPAs, trusts, and wealth preservation for high-net-worth clients while developing business.

The role combines technical execution with business development, cross-referral networks, and a clear path to partnership. Hybrid working, private healthcare, life cover, and STEP support are on offer.

Qualifications

• Qualified Solicitor or Chartered Legal Executive (CILEX) with 4+ years PQE in UK private practice specialising in private client law.

Responsibilities

• Take ownership of a varied portfolio of private client matters including wills, estate administration, LPAs, and trusts.
• Generate new instructions and build relationships with accountants and financial advisers.
• Mentor junior solicitors, paralegals and support staff where applicable.
• Engage in business development and network with regional referrers to drive practice growth.

Skills

BD & Networking

Leadership

Client Relationship

Mentoring

Education

Solicitor or CILEX

Job description

Private Client Senior Associate (4+ PQE)

Location: Reigate Area

Salary: c.£60,000 – £75,000 + DOE / PQE

Are you an experienced Private Client specialist with a natural talent for business development, ready to step into a prominent Senior Associate position? Our client is a highly regarded, full-service law firm with a strong regional footprint across Surrey. Known for their high-caliber client base and supportive, progressive culture, they are seeking a driven, commercially minded Private Client Senior Associate to handle complex estate planning matters, cultivate client relationships, and drive practice growth across the Reigate region.

The Opportunity

This is a pivotal appointment for a senior fee earner who combines technical execution with practice building flair. Working alongside established partners, you will take ownership of a varied, high-quality portfolio while actively developing local referrer networks and driving business development initiatives. Backed by modern practice management systems and a dedicated support team, this role offers direct exposure to departmental strategy and a clear, transparent pathway toward long-term Partner-level progression.

Key Responsibilities & Requirements

• Qualifications & Experience: Qualified Solicitor or Chartered Legal Executive (CILEX) with 4+ years PQE in UK private practice specialising in private client law.
• Technical Expertise: Comprehensive handling of complex wills, estate administration, Lasting Powers of Attorney (LPAs), trust creation/administration, and wealth preservation strategies for high-net-worth (HNW) individuals (STEP qualification is desirable but not essential).
• Business Development & Networking: Proven track record of generating new instructions, identifying BD opportunities, and building relationships with accountants, financial advisors, and regional referrers.
• Leadership & Team Management: Demonstrated ability to work independently, with experience in managing or mentoring junior solicitors, paralegals, and support staff considered a strong advantage.

Package & Benefits

• Base Salary & Bonus: £60,000 – £75,000 dependent on experience and track record, plus a performance-related bonus scheme.
• Work-Life Balance: Hybrid and flexible working options supported by a well-resourced department and modern legal tech.
• Health & Protection: Private healthcare options, life assurance, and comprehensive employee assistance schemes.
• Progression & Culture: Transparent pathways to partnership, funded ongoing professional development (including STEP qualification support), and a collaborative, supportive working environment.