We are seeking a commercially aware Private Client Solicitor/Legal Executive to join our client's Private Client team, on a hybrid basis in Chesham. The successful candidate will provide high-quality legal advice and case management across a varied caseload of private client matters, ensuring efficient progression, accurate documentation and excellent client care within a collaborative firm that values technical competence, continuous professional development and high standards.
This role will involve advising on wills, probate, estate administration, intestacy matters, lasting powers of attorney, deputyship, estate planning and tax-effective succession matters, together with acting for clients on asset protection and small business succession issues. The post offers opportunities for professional development, involvement in process improvement and hybrid working following successful completion of the probationary period.
Provide proactive legal and administrative support across a mixed-complexity private client caseload from client intake through to matter closure, ensuring timely progression and accurate record keeping.
Advise clients on and prepare wills, codicils, enduring and lasting powers of attorney, deeds of variation, and related estate planning documents; ensure clear explanations of options, risks and costs.
Administer estates and manage probate matters including applying for probate/letters of administration, preparing schedules of assets and liabilities, dealing with tax and asset distributions, and corresponding with beneficiaries and third parties.
Assist with deputyship and Court of Protection applications, liaising with clients, deputies, medical professionals and the court; prepare supporting documentation and ensure compliance with statutory reporting obligations.
Provide practical advice on lifetime succession planning, trust structures and asset protection; liaise with tax advisers and other specialists where required to deliver joined-up client solutions.
Undertake client care and AML procedures, verify identity where required, maintain audit-ready files and ensure compliance with the firm’s risk, file management and regulatory requirements.
Use and maintain case management systems and digital precedents; open and close files, record time and assist with billing, disbursement tracking and fee estimate preparation where required.
Prepare and check correspondence, client letters, statutory forms and court applications; draft probate schedules, estate accounts and trustee resolutions under solicitor supervision where applicable.
Liaise with clients, beneficiaries, executors, trustees, banks, HMRC, estate agents and other third parties to obtain information, chase outstanding matters and progress matters towards resolution; escalate issues as appropriate.
Support fee-earners at client meetings and hearings where necessary; prepare attendance notes, instructions to counsel and bundle documentation for Court of Protection hearings or contested probate matters.
Contribute to continuous improvement by maintaining precedents, checklists and workflows; help identify opportunities to streamline processes and enhance the client experience.
Provide support and guidance to more junior colleagues where appropriate; participate in training and knowledge-sharing to foster a supportive team environment and maintain high standards of client care.
Qualified solicitor or Legal Executive (CILEX) with demonstrable experience in private client work; with minimum 3 years PQE.
Practical experience preparing wills, LPAs, probate applications, estate administration paperwork and Court of Protection documents; accuracy in drafting and checking documents is essential.
Sound knowledge of probate procedure, relevant taxation considerations, powers of attorney and Court of Protection practice; ability to identify when to involve external specialists.
Excellent client care and communication skills with the ability to manage sensitive matters, maintain professional relationships and manage client expectations with empathy and professionalism.
Organised and able to manage competing priorities and a varied workload; strong attention to detail and the ability to meet deadlines with minimal supervision when required.
Ability to work collaboratively within a team, support colleagues and contribute positively to firm culture; professional discretion and confidentiality are essential.
Proficiency with case management systems and standard office IT applications; willingness to adopt and help embed digital workflows and precedents.
Commitment to personal and professional development and to supporting the delivery of commercial, client-focused legal services; willingness to undertake CPD as required.
