At a Glance
- Tasks: Handle complex disputes in trusts and probate, advising high-net-worth clients.
- Company: Join a highly regarded London firm with a strong reputation.
- Benefits: Strong training, career progression, and a supportive work environment.
- Other info: Collaborative team culture with exposure to international disputes.
- Why this job: Work on high-profile cases and develop your legal expertise.
- Qualifications: Experience in contentious trusts and probate, strong analytical skills.
The predicted salary is between 60000 - 80000 £ per year.
A highly regarded London firm is seeking a Disputes Associate to join its Contentious Trusts and Probate practice within the Private Client, Tax & Immigration group. This is an excellent opportunity to work on complex, high-value and often cross-border disputes for an exceptional international client base. The successful candidate will work closely with leading practitioners in the field, advising ultra-high-net-worth individuals, trustees, fiduciaries and family members on sensitive and often high-profile matters. The role spans the full lifecycle of contentious private client work, from pre-action advice through to High Court litigation.
Key Responsibilities
- The Associate will be involved in a broad range of contentious private client matters, including:
- Challenges to the validity of wills.
- Claims under the Inheritance (Provision for Family and Dependants) Act 1975.
- Breach of trust and fiduciary duty disputes.
- Applications for the removal and replacement of executors and trustees.
- Complex cross-border succession disputes and offshore trust litigation.
- Managing a personal caseload under supervision, alongside supporting senior lawyers on complex matters.
- Drafting high-quality pleadings, witness statements, correspondence and settlement documentation.
- Liaising directly with clients, intermediaries and other stakeholders, ensuring discretion and exceptional client care.
- Preparing for and attending mediations, hearings and court proceedings.
- Contributing to business development initiatives, including events and thought leadership.
Candidate Requirements
- The ideal candidate will have:
- Experience in contentious trusts and probate work gained at a respected law firm.
- A strong understanding of trust, estate and succession disputes.
- Excellent academic background and strong technical legal ability.
- Highly developed drafting skills and attention to detail.
- Exposure to high-value or complex private client disputes (including cross-border matters, where possible).
The role requires:
- Strong analytical and problem-solving ability in complex legal matters.
- Excellent written and oral communication skills.
- Ability to manage sensitive client relationships with discretion and professionalism.
- Commercial awareness and understanding of the wider private wealth sector.
- Capability to manage competing deadlines and a varied caseload.
- A collaborative approach to working within a high-performing team environment.
Personal Attributes
- The successful candidate will be:
- Bright, ambitious and detail-oriented.
- Confident working with sophisticated and high-net-worth clients.
- Professional, discreet and client-focused in all interactions.
- Proactive, resilient and comfortable working in a fast-paced disputes environment.
- Interested in developing within the private wealth and contentious trusts space.
What is Offered
- The opportunity to join a leading contentious trusts and probate practice within a highly respected London firm.
- Exposure to complex, high-value and often international disputes.
- Direct work with experienced practitioners and sector-leading experts.
- Strong training, development and career progression opportunities.
- A collaborative and supportive working environment with access to a diverse, high-quality client base.
Contentious Trusts Associate/Senior Associate - Highly Regarded London Firm employer: Hunterslegal
Join a highly regarded London firm that offers an exceptional opportunity for growth and development within its Contentious Trusts and Probate practice. With a focus on complex, high-value disputes and a collaborative work culture, employees benefit from direct mentorship by leading practitioners and access to a diverse international client base. The firm prioritises professional development, ensuring that associates are well-equipped to thrive in a fast-paced environment while maintaining a strong commitment to client care.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Contentious Trusts Associate/Senior Associate - Highly Regarded London Firm
✨Network Like a Pro
Get out there and connect with people in the industry! Attend events, join relevant groups, and don’t be shy about reaching out to professionals on LinkedIn. We all know that sometimes it’s not just what you know, but who you know that can land you that dream job.
✨Ace the Interview
Prepare for your interviews by researching the firm and practising common questions. We recommend having a few examples ready that showcase your experience in contentious trusts and probate work. Show them you’re not just a fit for the role, but also a great addition to their team!
✨Follow Up
After your interview, don’t forget to send a thank-you email! It’s a simple gesture that shows your appreciation and keeps you fresh in their minds. We believe this small step can make a big difference in how they perceive you as a candidate.
✨Apply Through Our Website
When you find a role that excites you, apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets the attention it deserves. Plus, we’re always looking for passionate individuals to join our team, so don’t hesitate to put yourself out there!
We think you need these skills to ace Contentious Trusts Associate/Senior Associate - Highly Regarded London Firm
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter for the Contentious Trusts Associate role. Highlight your experience in contentious trusts and probate work, and don’t forget to mention any exposure to high-value or complex private client disputes.
Show Off Your Drafting Skills:Since strong drafting skills are key for this position, include examples of your previous work that demonstrate your ability to draft pleadings, witness statements, and correspondence. We want to see your attention to detail shine through!
Demonstrate Your Client Care:This role involves liaising with ultra-high-net-worth individuals and other stakeholders, so make sure to showcase your experience in managing sensitive client relationships. Share specific examples where you’ve provided exceptional client care.
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 this exciting opportunity in our highly regarded firm!
How to prepare for a job interview at Hunterslegal
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of contentious trusts and probate law. Familiarise yourself with key cases and legislation, especially the Inheritance (Provision for Family and Dependants) Act 1975. This will not only show your expertise but also demonstrate your genuine interest in the field.
✨Showcase Your Drafting Skills
Since drafting high-quality pleadings and witness statements is a big part of the role, be prepared to discuss your previous experiences. Bring examples of your work if possible, and be ready to explain your thought process behind them. This will highlight your attention to detail and technical ability.
✨Demonstrate Client Care
The firm values discretion and exceptional client care, so think of examples where you've successfully managed sensitive client relationships. Be ready to discuss how you handle difficult situations while maintaining professionalism and confidentiality.
✨Be a Team Player
This role requires collaboration within a high-performing team. Prepare to talk about your experiences working in teams, especially in high-pressure environments. Highlight your ability to support senior lawyers and manage your own caseload effectively, showing that you're ready to contribute to the firm's success.
