Senior Associate Contentious Trusts & Estates, Bristol

Chadwick Nott; Bristol; On-site; GBP 60,000 - 85,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Comprehensive learning and development programmes

Flexible benefits package

Wellbeing support

Positive work-life balance

Career progression pathways

Job summary

A leading law firm in Exeter is seeking an experienced Senior Associate to join its prestigious Contentious Trusts & Estates team. The role involves managing a varied caseload, advising high-net-worth clients on complex disputes. Ideal candidates will have over 7 years of PQE, strong technical knowledge, and the ability to manage competing demands. This position supports hybrid working and offers a range of benefits including career development opportunities and a positive work-life balance.

Qualifications

• 7+ years PQE in contentious Private Wealth or Trusts & Estates.
• Experience managing competing demands and meeting deadlines.
• Enthusiastic about business development and client engagement.

Responsibilities

• Advise on will disputes and Inheritance Act claims.
• Handle professional negligence claims.
• Manage complex matters with autonomy.
• Build and maintain long-term client relationships.
• Support business development and networking initiatives.
• Mentor junior colleagues.

Skills

Contentious Private Wealth experience

Strong technical knowledge

Excellent communication

Ability to manage deadlines

Commercial awareness

Business development enthusiasm

Collaborative approach

Job description

Senior Associate - Contentious Trusts & Estates - Exeter - 7+ years PQE

Location: Exeter (Hybrid & Flexible)

Type of Role: Permanent, Full-time

Salary: £60,000 to £85,000 (depending on experience)

A highly respected law firm is seeking a Senior or Managing Associate to join its leading Contentious Trusts & Estates team in Exeter. This is a rare opportunity to work with one of the largest specialist teams in the region, known for its high-profile and complex work across Private Wealth litigation.

The Role

You’ll handle a varied and intellectually stimulating caseload, advising a diverse client base including high-net-worth individuals, business owners, trustees, charities, and landowners.

Key Responsibilities

• Advising on will disputes, Inheritance Act claims, and trust litigation
• Handling professional negligence claims related to estate and trust administration
• Managing complex and sensitive matters with autonomy
• Building and maintaining long-term client relationships
• Supporting business development and networking initiatives
• Mentoring junior colleagues and contributing to team growth

Candidate Requirements

• 7+ years PQE in contentious Private Wealth or Trusts & Estates
• Strong technical knowledge and litigation experience
• Excellent communication and client care skills
• Proven ability to manage competing demands and meet deadlines
• Commercial awareness and strategic thinking
• Enthusiasm for business development and client engagement
• A collaborative and inclusive approach to firm culture

Working Arrangements

Hybrid working is supported across all roles. Attendance at the Exeter office is expected, with flexibility to accommodate personal commitments.

Benefits

• Comprehensive learning and development programmes
• Flexible benefits package
• Wellbeing support and initiatives
• Positive work-life balance
• Inclusive and respectful working environment
• Clear pathways for career progression

If you are interested in this opportunity or would like a confidential conversation about your next career move, please contact:

📧 [e-mail]

📞 0117 917 1515 / 07711 799761

🔗 Olivia Reed | LinkedIn

The firm is committed to fostering diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging. Applications are welcome from all qualified candidates, regardless of background. Where a level of experience is indicated, this is intended as a guideline only.

At Chadwick Nott, we are committed to developing a diverse and inclusive culture as well as supporting our large client network achieve the same. We are an equal opportunities employer and encourage applications of all qualified candidates regardless of their age, sex, race, disability, sexual orientation, disability, culture or anything other personal characteristic. We champion and celebrate diversity in the workplace. Where a level of experience is indicated, please note that this is only a guideline.