Senior Solicitor – Private Client in Hove

An established and forward-thinking law firm is seeking a Senior Private Client Solicitor to join its growing Private Client team. This is an excellent opportunity for a technically strong and commercially minded lawyer to manage a varied caseload of complex matters, while supervising and developing junior fee earners and contributing to the department's continued growth. The role offers hybrid working, with a primary base at either the firm's Hove or Worthing office.

Purpose: The Senior Private Client Solicitor will take a leading role in the Private Client department, supervising a team of 2–5 qualified fee earners whilst managing their own varied caseload of complex private client matters. The role requires a technically strong and commercially minded lawyer, able to advise clients on wills, LPAs, probate, trusts and estate planning to a high standard. The successful candidate will support the supervision and development of junior staff, contribute actively to business development, and play a meaningful part in the continued growth and success of the department.

Key Responsibilities:

• Managing a varied caseload of private client matters including wills, LPAs, probate, estate administration, trust advice and administration, and Court of Protection matters, with experience in estate planning preferred.
• Advising a broad client base including HNW individuals, families, elderly and vulnerable clients on complex matters, demonstrating empathy, sensitivity and a high standard of client care throughout.
• Building and maintaining strong relationships with clients, referrers and third parties including HMRC, the Probate Registry, financial institutions, accountants and other professional advisers.
• Managing own caseload with a high degree of autonomy, whilst working collaboratively within the wider team.
• Supervising and supporting junior fee earners, trainees, paralegals and support staff, nurturing talent and fostering professional development.
• Meeting KPIs and managing billing, WIP and financial performance of matters, with the ability to promote commercial awareness in others.
• Contributing to business development, networking and the growth of the department, including developing and maintaining your own client relationships.
• Ensuring compliance with all regulatory and professional obligations and maintaining high standards.
• Championing a positive team culture and promoting the firm's values across the department.

Qualifications and Skills:

• Qualified Solicitor or Chartered Legal Executive with at least 6 years' PQE in private client work.
• Strong technical knowledge of wills, LPAs, probate, trusts and inheritance tax planning.
• Experience advising on complex matters, including HNW estates and multi-generational planning.
• STEP qualification or working towards STEP is desirable.
• Proficiency in case management systems; experience with Mattersphere is advantageous.
• Strong drafting, communication and organisational skills.
• Proven experience of supervising and managing others.

Skills and Competencies:

• Excellent client relationship management skills, with the ability to advise elderly and vulnerable clients with empathy and sensitivity.
• Strong attention to detail and problem-solving ability.
• Ability to manage a varied caseload and prioritise workloads effectively and autonomously.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively as part of a close-knit team.
• Commercial awareness and a proactive interest in business development.
• A collaborative, supportive working style with a commitment to nurturing junior talent.

What's On Offer:

• Clear career progression opportunities, including the potential to develop specialist expertise and take on wider management responsibilities.
• Support for professional development including STEP qualification and CPD.
• A flexible and supportive working environment.

If you are interested in this position, and you meet the requirements of the role, please click 'apply now' to forward an up-to-date copy of your resume. Alternatively, if you would like to discuss this opportunity further, please contact Kevin Thompson for a confidential discussion.

Our advertisements use salary and experience as a guide only. Interlink Recruitment is an equal opportunities employer. Due to the high volume of applications, only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.