PRIVATE CLIENT PARALEGAL

We are seeking to recruit a Private Client Paralegal to join our growing Bristol-based practice, working closely with an experienced solicitor on a varied and rewarding private client caseload. This role is particularly suited to someone who is serious about building a long-term career as a solicitor in Private Client law and who is looking for genuine hands-on experience in a busy and supportive legal environment. For the right candidate, there will be a clear opportunity for progression, including potential consideration for a Training Contract and/or another route to qualification following a successful period in post.

The role will primarily involve assisting with Wills, Probate, Estate Administration and Lasting Powers of Attorney, whilst also providing exposure to Court of Protection matters and wider private client work as the department develops.

Location: Bristol – Hanham and Clifton offices

Hours: Full-time, Monday to Friday (37.5 hours per week)

Salary: Competitive and in line with Law Society recommended rates, dependent upon experience

Start Date: Immediate / as soon as possible

Probation: 3–6 months, with hybrid working available following successful completion of probation and subject to business needs

Daniel Woodman & Co. Limited is a long-established and respected Bristol law firm with over 25 years' experience of serving individuals and businesses across Bristol and the surrounding areas. We pride ourselves on providing practical, compassionate and client-focused legal advice, building lasting relationships with generations of clients and their families.

As our Private Client department continues to expand, we are looking to recruit a capable and ambitious Private Client Paralegal to support our growing practice and develop their career with the firm.

Key Responsibilities:

• Opening, maintaining and progressing files in accordance with SRA requirements, office procedures and file management protocols
• Drafting client correspondence and assisting with legal documentation
• Preparing draft Wills, Lasting Powers of Attorney and associated documentation
• Assisting with Probate applications and estate administration
• Preparing inheritance tax forms and supporting estate accounts under supervision
• Liaising with clients, executors, beneficiaries, banks, investment companies, HMRC and the Probate Registry
• Maintaining accurate attendance notes, file notes and records
• Managing key dates and ensuring matters progress efficiently
• Obtaining and organising financial information and supporting documentation
• Undertaking legal research where required
• Providing administrative and legal support to the supervising solicitor
• Delivering excellent client care throughout every stage of the matter

What We Are Looking For:

We are looking for someone who is genuinely committed to developing a career in Private Client law and who is keen to gain practical experience within a busy and varied department. The successful candidate should be compassionate, organised, professional and proactive, with excellent communication skills and a genuine interest in helping clients through significant life events. This role will suit someone who enjoys building client relationships, takes pride in attention to detail and wishes to develop into a future Private Client solicitor.

Essential Skills / Requirements:

• Strong written and verbal communication skills
• Excellent organisational skills and attention to detail
• A professional, empathetic and client-focused approach
• Excellent time management and the ability to manage multiple matters simultaneously
• Strong drafting skills
• Good analytical ability and logical thinking
• A genuine interest in developing a long-term career in Private Client law
• Ability to work proactively whilst recognising when supervision is required
• Good IT skills, including Microsoft Word, Outlook and Excel
• Confidence using or learning case management systems, ideally LEAP
• A willingness to learn, develop and take responsibility

Qualifications / Academic Background:

Applicants should ideally have:

• A qualifying LLB Law degree or Law Conversion qualification; and
• Either: Completed the LPC or SQE; Be currently undertaking the LPC or SQE; or Be due to complete the LPC or SQE in the near future.

We would also welcome applications from strong candidates who can otherwise demonstrate a genuine commitment to a career in Private Client law and the ability to thrive in a busy legal practice.

Why Join Us?

• Join a long-established and respected Bristol firm with an excellent local reputation
• Gain hands-on experience within a busy Private Client department
• Work closely with an experienced solicitor on a varied caseload
• Develop practical expertise in Wills, Probate and LPAs
• Build long-term client relationships and make a meaningful difference to clients and their families
• Benefit from genuine progression opportunities, including potential consideration for a Training Contract or alternative route to qualification

Progression:

We are committed to developing talent from within the firm. For the right candidate, this role offers genuine opportunities for career progression within the Private Client department and, where appropriate, consideration for a Training Contract or other route to qualification following a successful period in post, subject to business need, performance and suitability.

How to Apply:

If you are ready to take the next step in your legal career and would like to join an established Bristol firm with a growing Private Client department, we would be delighted to hear from you. Please send your CV and covering letter to the Practice Manager, Mr Ben Fews.