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- Tasks: Join our private client team, handling complex matters and delivering top-notch client service.
- Company: Debenhams Ottaway is a leading law firm in Hertfordshire, renowned for its expertise in private client services.
- Benefits: Enjoy excellent training, career progression, and a supportive work environment with a focus on personal development.
- Why this job: Be part of a tier 1 ranked team, working with high net worth clients and making a real impact.
- Qualifications: Minimum 2 years PQE with strong private client knowledge; STEP or SFE accreditation preferred.
- Other info: Work alongside experienced professionals and develop your skills in a collaborative atmosphere.
The predicted salary is between 28800 - 48000 £ per year.
We are looking for solicitors with a strong technical background who are confident working on complex private client matters and able to provide high levels of client service.
Our private client team is one of the largest and most experienced in Hertfordshire with four partners, one consultant, three senior associates, six solicitors, a court of protection manager and four legal assistants. We are ranked tier 1 in Legal 500 and band 1 in Chambers HNW.
We look after the needs of a vast number of Hertfordshire families but what sets us apart is our appeal to wealthy clients in London and the rest of the UK and those looking for a specialist trusts team. Our team is grouped into three main areas:
- Protecting and managing wealth now and in the future through inheritance tax, estate planning and estate administration.
- Lifetime planning, including Lasting Powers of Attorney, Court of Protection (COP) and professional deputyship services and the protection of vulnerable adults.
- Trusts, with a dedicated trusts team of specialist lawyers to help clients set up and administer trusts.
Our Clients:
90% of work comes from existing clients and referrer recommendations. 100% of client survey respondents would recommend us to family and friends.
We continue to work closely with the leading financial advisers including St James’ Place and Tilney, as well as many banks, and regularly advise their London clients.
By raising our profile and developing relationships with other professional advisers we have seen a significant rise in young professionals, celebrities, entrepreneurs, business owners and wealthy young families in Hertfordshire, London and across the UK coming to us for advice.
Working with family, corporate, property and employment teams in the wider private wealth sector, we are developing long term and broader relationships with high net worth clients, helping them with many aspects of their personal and business lives.
To maintain and maximise client service standards we are Law Society WIQS (Wills and Inheritance Quality Scheme) accredited.
Progression, Growth and Opportunities:
Growing and encouraging our future talent is a priority and we help our solicitors to develop specialisms and skills to succeed. Being one of the largest teams in Hertfordshire, we are renowned for the level of our training, supervision and support. Half of the lawyers, and three of the four partners, in the team trained and qualified at Debenhams Ottaway.
The Essentials:
- A minimum of 2 years PQE with a high level of private client technical knowledge.
- The ability to work with minimal supervision.
- A client-centred focus, taking responsibility for service levels and proactively maximising and improving client relationships.
- A can-do, motivated and positive attitude.
- Excellent written and oral communication skills.
- Good team player to include liaising with other teams.
- IT skills – use of a probate case management would be beneficial.
- A private client specific accreditation or qualification such as STEP or SFE would be ideal.
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Solicitors – private client team employer: Debenhams Ottaway LLP
Contact Detail:
Debenhams Ottaway LLP Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Solicitors – private client team
✨Tip Number 1
Network with professionals in the private client sector, especially those connected to high net worth individuals. Attend relevant events or seminars where you can meet potential referrers and clients, as building these relationships can significantly enhance your chances of landing a role with us.
✨Tip Number 2
Familiarise yourself with the latest trends and changes in private client law, particularly around estate planning and trusts. Demonstrating your up-to-date knowledge during interviews can set you apart from other candidates and show your commitment to the field.
✨Tip Number 3
Consider obtaining additional qualifications such as STEP or SFE if you haven't already. These accreditations not only enhance your CV but also demonstrate your dedication to specialising in private client work, which is highly valued by our team.
✨Tip Number 4
Prepare to discuss specific examples of how you've provided exceptional client service in your previous roles. Our firm prides itself on client satisfaction, so showcasing your ability to build and maintain strong client relationships will be crucial during the interview process.
We think you need these skills to ace Solicitors – private client team
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights your relevant experience in private client matters. Emphasise your technical knowledge and any specific qualifications, such as STEP or SFE, that align with the job requirements.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that showcases your client-centred focus and ability to work independently. Mention specific examples of how you've successfully managed complex private client cases and improved client relationships.
Highlight Relevant Skills: In your application, clearly outline your excellent written and oral communication skills. Provide examples of how you have effectively collaborated with other teams and maintained high service standards.
Showcase Your Motivation: Convey your enthusiasm for joining a leading private client team. Discuss your commitment to professional growth and how you plan to contribute to the firm's reputation for exceptional client service.
How to prepare for a job interview at Debenhams Ottaway LLP
✨Showcase Your Technical Knowledge
Make sure to highlight your strong technical background in private client matters during the interview. Be prepared to discuss specific cases or scenarios where you've successfully navigated complex issues, as this will demonstrate your expertise and confidence.
✨Emphasise Client-Centred Focus
Since the firm prides itself on high levels of client service, be ready to share examples of how you've proactively improved client relationships in the past. Discuss your approach to understanding client needs and how you ensure their satisfaction.
✨Demonstrate Team Collaboration
As a good team player is essential for this role, prepare to talk about your experiences working with other teams. Highlight instances where collaboration led to successful outcomes, especially in multi-disciplinary settings involving family, corporate, or property law.
✨Prepare for Technical Questions
Expect to face technical questions related to private client law, such as estate planning or trusts. Brush up on relevant legislation and recent developments in the field, and be ready to articulate your thoughts clearly and confidently.
