Probate Solicitor at Co-op

Qualified as a solicitor or legal executive in private practice (CILEX or STEP qualification), or equivalent experience in probate law. Ability to use initiative, prioritise and organise work in a fast-paced, high-volume environment. Client-focused approach with the ability to build positive relationships in a remote setting.

Probate law represents one of the most stable and deeply human practice areas in the legal profession. As individuals and families navigate the passing of loved ones, a skilled probate solicitor becomes both a legal guide and a source of reassurance. For legal professionals seeking a practice that blends technical rigor with meaningful client interaction, probate law offers an enduring career path that remains largely recession-resistant. The demand for estate administration, will drafting, and contentious probate work continues to rise as populations age and estate planning becomes increasingly complex.

Co-op Legal Services is expanding its specialist probate team, creating opportunities for solicitors and legal executives who want to make a tangible difference. The role advertised in Stratford-Upon-Avon is not just another job posting—it is an invitation to join a purpose-driven organisation that is actively reshaping how legal services are delivered. With an annual salary range of £40,000 to £65,000 depending on experience, this position is designed to attract seasoned professionals while also offering a path for those at the early stages of their specialism.

The role is based in Stratford-Upon-Avon, a picturesque town in England that is famous as the birthplace of William Shakespeare. However, the working model is hybrid, allowing colleagues to divide their time between home and any of the company's offices in Manchester, Sheffield, Bristol, or Stratford upon Avon. This flexibility is a significant draw for modern legal professionals who value work-life balance without sacrificing the collaborative benefits of an in‑person office environment. The option for full-time (37.5 hours) or part‑time hours makes this role accessible to a wider range of candidates, including those with caring responsibilities or other commitments.

The successful applicant will own a caseload of probate cases varying in complexity, handling them end‑to‑end using a case management system and artificial intelligence tools. This is not a role where you simply pass files to paralegals—you will be actively using your legal knowledge to mentor more junior members of the team while simultaneously engaging with clients primarily by telephone and email. The ability to build strong relationships remotely is explicitly listed as a key requirement, which underscores the modern nature of this position. The day‑to‑day responsibilities include recording information accurately, collaborating with expert support, and maintaining a client‑focused approach to targets. This is a high‑volume, fast‑paced environment where initiative and organisational skills are non‑negotiable.

To stand out, focus on demonstrating your hands‑on experience with probate cases. The eligibility criteria state that you should be qualified as a solicitor or legal executive in private practice, with a CILEX or STEP qualification, or equivalent experience. Emphasise any specific cases you have managed, particularly those that involved complex estate administration or contentious issues. Additionally, since Co‑op is integrating AI into its processes, highlight your comfort with legal technology and willingness to adapt to new tools. Show that you are a self‑starter who can prioritise in a fast‑paced environment, and provide examples of how you have built rapport with clients remotely.

The compensation package extends far beyond the base salary. Co‑op offers an annual bonus scheme, a pension with up to 10% employer contributions, 28 days of holiday plus bank holidays (rising to 32 with service), private healthcare for those at Work Level 5, and a suite of wellbeing benefits covering physical, financial, and mental health. For ongoing professional development, the company provides coaching, training, and study leave—an invaluable benefit for lawyers committed to continuous learning and progression. Co‑op is deeply committed to building an inclusive work environment.

Although this position is based in England, the hybrid work model and the global nature of legal services mean that internationally qualified lawyers could be strong candidates, provided they can demonstrate equivalent experience and meet the requirements for practising in the UK. Probate law is a distinctly domestic practice area, so familiarity with English and Welsh law is essential.

Frequently Asked Questions:

• What qualifications are required for the Probate Solicitor role at Co‑op? You must be qualified as a solicitor or legal executive in private practice, with a CILEX or STEP qualification, or have equivalent experience in probate law.
• Is the role open to part‑time applicants? Yes, the job posting explicitly states that both full‑time (37.5 hours) and part‑time hours are available.
• What is the salary range for this position? The base pay range is £40,000 to £65,000 per year, depending on experience.
• Where are the offices located for this hybrid work arrangement? Colleagues divide their time between working from home and any of the Co‑op offices in Manchester, Sheffield, Bristol, or Stratford upon Avon.