Senior Associate Contentious Trusts & Estates, Exeter

Chadwick Nott; Exeter; 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

Clear pathways for career progression

Job summary

A leading law firm in Exeter is seeking a Senior Associate for its Contentious Trusts & Estates team. This role demands expertise in will disputes and trust litigation, supporting a diverse client base. The firm offers a competitive salary and a hybrid working model, fostering an inclusive environment for all qualified candidates.

Qualifications

• 7+ years PQE in contentious Private Wealth or Trusts & Estates.
• Proven ability to handle complex litigation.
• Strong relationship-building skills.

Responsibilities

• Advise on will disputes and trust litigation.
• Manage professional negligence claims.
• Mentor junior colleagues and support team growth.

Skills

Strong technical knowledge

Excellent communication skills

Litigation experience

Commercial awareness

Ability to manage competing demands

Enthusiasm for business development

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 include:

• 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

This role is suited to a qualified lawyer with:

• 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

In addition to a competitive salary, the firm offers:

• 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.

The content provided is for recruitment purposes and reflects the information available in the job posting.