Downs is a long-established and respected law firm based in Surrey, recognised for our commitment to excellence and our client-focused approach. We specialise in most practice areas, including civil and commercial litigation, and are seeking a highly experienced and motivated Senior Associate to join our Litigation team to help grow and expand our Contentious Probate and Trusts/Private Wealth Disputes Team.An opportunity for partnership is available to a suitable candidate.
Role Overview:
The firm is looking for a highly skilled Senior Associate with substantial experience in contentious trusts and estates law to lead and grown the firm’s sub-team in this area of practice. This role will also involve advising clients on a range of disputes involving contentious estates, wills, trusts, and probate matters. This role offers the opportunity to work on complex, high-net-worth cases, dealing with clients both locally and nationally.
Key Responsibilities:
- Manage a diverse caseload of high profile and complex contentious probate and trusts matters including:
- Challenges to wills and testamentary capacity disputes
- Claims under the Inheritance (Provision for Family and Dependants) Act 1975
- Executor and trustee disputes, breach of trust claims, and estate administration issues
- Proprietary estoppel, undue influence, and rectification claims.
- Oversee all phases of litigation, from case inception through trial and appeal.
- Conduct legal research, draft pleadings, witness statements, settlement agreements, instructions and briefs, and provide expert legal advice throughout.
- Represent clients in court appearances, mediations, and negotiations.
- Ensure compliance with legal standards and firm policies.
- Foster strong relationships with clients, providing them with strategic counsel and regular updates.
- Mentor and supervise junior members of the team, fostering a collaborative and supportive work environment.
- Collaborate with other departments (particularly our Private Client team) within the firm to provide comprehensive legal solutions.
- Stay current with developments in litigation and relevant laws and regulations.
- Lead business development initiatives, including networking, client presentations, and contributing to marketing content or seminars.
Requirements:
- Solid experience in litigation, with significant expertise in cases relating to wills, trusts and estate disputes, and also claims relating to the Inheritance (Provision for Family and Dependents) Act 1975.
- Membership of ACTAPS preferred but not essential.
- An understanding of Court of Protection work will be an advantage.
- Proven track record of successfully handling complex litigation cases.
- Exceptional negotiation skills, with experience representing clients in court and alternative dispute resolution settings.
- Excellent legal research, analytical, organisational and drafting skills.
- Ability to work under pressure and manage multiple priorities.
- Demonstrated ability to build and maintain client relationships.
- High ethical standards and professional integrity.
We are able to offer:
- Competitive salary and benefits package.
- Opportunity to work with a team of dedicated and experienced professionals.
- Professional development and continuing education opportunities.
- Supportive and inclusive work environment.
Should you wish to speak in confidence about this role, or ask any questions, please contact Alex Tigwell on a.tigwell@downslaw.co.uk.
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