At a Glance
- Tasks: Manage your own caseload and support junior team members in private client matters.
- Company: Join a supportive legal team at Ashtons Legal in Bury St Edmunds.
- Benefits: Flexible working hours, professional development, and opportunities to grow your legal skills.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in clients' lives while developing your legal expertise.
- Qualifications: Qualified Solicitor or CILEX Lawyer with 2+ years of relevant experience.
- Other info: Dynamic environment with a focus on teamwork and client relationships.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
Location: Bury St Edmunds
Contract Type: Permanent, Full‑time, Part‑time
Closing Date: 30 January 2026
Salary: To be discussed
Specific Hours: Our core hours are 9.00 am to 5.00 pm but we are happy to consider alternative working patterns.
Our Private Client team helps our clients to put plans and systems in place, to make sure their wishes are achieved and the future of their families safeguarded. Our work includes wills, trusts, complex lifetime tax planning, estate administration, powers of attorney and Court of Protection. We have team members based in all our offices in Cambridge, Bury St Edmunds, Ipswich and Norwich and we share work, expertise and support across the team.
We are looking for a qualified Solicitor or Legal Executive to join us who is ambitious and keen to grow within their role. We would like you to have at least two years relevant post‑qualification experience as you will be responsible for your own caseload as well as working alongside the members of the Private Client team. Amongst other matters, you can expect to work on complex estate administration involving taxable estates, often with agricultural and business elements, preparation of deeds of variation and declarations of trust. You will advise clients on issues surrounding succession, tax and mental capacity and will be working within the team who have specialism in advising both high net worth individuals as well as elderly and vulnerable clients and their families. You will also work on Court of Protection matters. You will have the opportunity to work across all areas of private client work to build your skills across the discipline.
Ashtons Legal offers great opportunities to develop and maintain both technical and leadership and management skills.
Day‑to‑day responsibilities:
- Manage your own caseload, including good financial housekeeping
- Develop, support, supervise and coach more junior members of the team
- Conduct meetings with clients, either face‑to‑face or remotely
- Assess legal issues and advise accordingly
- Advise on costs and scope of work
- Conduct legal research
- Draft documents and letters
- Keep up to date with law and practice
- Assist the Lifetime Planning Team based in other offices when required
- Assist in the development of long‑term client relationships including assisting and attending business development activities
- Be confident in the use of technology, both in regard to a case‑management system and also as a means of working with clients and colleagues and maintaining strong relationships
Knowledge, Skills and Experience Required:
- Be qualified as a Solicitor or a qualified CILEX Lawyer
- You will have at least two years of post‑qualification relevant experience in private client work, particularly estate administration, and working with vulnerable clients
- Be willing to learn and develop technical skills as well as obtain additional qualifications such as STEP and Lifetime Lawyers (SFE), as required
- Excellent communication and team skills
- Have a good work ethic
Private Client Solicitor or Legal Executive (2+ PQE) - Bury St Edmunds employer: Ashtons Legal LLP
Contact Detail:
Ashtons Legal LLP Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Private Client Solicitor or Legal Executive (2+ PQE) - Bury St Edmunds
✨Network Like a Pro
Get out there and connect with people in the legal field! Attend local events, join relevant groups, and don’t be shy about reaching out on LinkedIn. We all know that sometimes it’s not just what you know, but who you know that can land you that perfect role.
✨Show Off Your Skills
When you get the chance to meet potential employers or colleagues, make sure to highlight your experience in private client work. Talk about your successes with estate administration and how you've helped vulnerable clients. We want to see your passion and expertise shine through!
✨Be Ready for Interviews
Prepare for those interviews by brushing up on common questions related to private client law. Think about scenarios where you’ve had to advise clients on complex issues. We suggest practising with a friend or even in front of the mirror to boost your confidence!
✨Apply Through Our Website
Don’t forget to check out our website for the latest job openings! Applying directly through us not only shows your interest but also gives you a better chance to stand out. We’re excited to see your application and hopefully welcome you to our team!
We think you need these skills to ace Private Client Solicitor or Legal Executive (2+ PQE) - Bury St Edmunds
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV reflects the skills and experience that match the Private Client role. Highlight your relevant PQE and any specific cases you've handled that align with our team's focus on estate administration and working with vulnerable clients.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you're passionate about private client work and how you can contribute to our team. Mention any specific experiences that demonstrate your ability to manage a caseload and support junior members.
Showcase Your Communication Skills: As a Private Client Solicitor or Legal Executive, strong communication is key. In your application, give examples of how you've effectively communicated with clients, especially in sensitive situations. This will show us you're the right fit for our team.
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it gives you a chance to explore more about our firm and culture!
How to prepare for a job interview at Ashtons Legal LLP
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of private client law, especially around wills, trusts, and estate administration. Familiarise yourself with recent changes in legislation that could impact your role, as this will show your commitment and expertise.
✨Showcase Your Experience
Prepare to discuss specific cases you've worked on, particularly those involving complex estate administration or vulnerable clients. Highlight your problem-solving skills and how you've managed your own caseload effectively.
✨Demonstrate Team Spirit
Since the role involves working closely with a team, be ready to talk about your experience in mentoring or supporting junior colleagues. Share examples of how you've collaborated with others to achieve positive outcomes for clients.
✨Ask Thoughtful Questions
Prepare some insightful questions about the firm’s approach to private client work and how they support professional development. This shows your genuine interest in the role and helps you assess if the firm is the right fit for you.