At a Glance
- Tasks: Advise on complex, high-value private wealth disputes and manage a varied caseload.
- Company: Leading London law firm known for its collaborative culture and high-calibre client base.
- Benefits: Supportive environment with professional development and clear career progression opportunities.
- Other info: Join a high-performing team focused on delivering tailored legal solutions.
- Why this job: Work on impactful international cases alongside top practitioners in a dynamic team.
- Qualifications: Experience in contentious trusts and probate disputes with strong drafting and communication skills.
The predicted salary is between 55000 - 65000 £ per year.
Hunters Legal is working with a leading London law firm to support the growth of its highly regarded Contentious Trusts & Probate / Trusts & Estates Disputes team. This is an excellent opportunity for an ambitious Associate to join a collaborative and high-performing environment, advising on complex, high-value private wealth disputes for a sophisticated, often international client base.
Firm Overview
A leading London law firm with a strong reputation for advising a diverse and high‑calibre client base, including private individuals, family offices, entrepreneurs and international businesses. The firm combines deep sector expertise with a full‑service offering, delivering commercially focused and tailored legal solutions. Known for its collaborative and collegiate culture, the firm provides a supportive and dynamic environment with a clear focus on professional development, progression and long‑term career growth. Its approach blends technical excellence with a strong emphasis on client relationships, discretion and strategic thinking.
Team Overview
The Contentious Trusts & Probate / Trusts & Estates Disputes team sits within the wider Private Client offering and advises on complex, high‑value and often multi‑jurisdictional disputes. The team acts for a sophisticated client base including high and ultra‑high‑net‑worth individuals, families, trustees, fiduciaries, beneficiaries and family offices. Matters frequently involve international elements, offshore structures and sensitive family dynamics. Working closely with colleagues across private client, tax and litigation, the team delivers a fully integrated service, combining technical expertise with a pragmatic and commercially aware approach.
Role Overview
The firm is seeking an Associate to join its growing disputes team. This is an excellent opportunity to work on complex, high‑value and often cross‑border contentious private wealth matters alongside highly regarded practitioners. The successful candidate will be involved in all stages of disputes, from initial strategy and risk assessment through to mediation, alternative dispute resolution and High Court litigation.
Key Responsibilities
- Advising on a broad range of contentious trusts and probate matters, including:
- Challenges to the validity of wills, including capacity and undue influence.
- Claims under the Inheritance (Provision for Family and Dependants) Act 1975.
- Breach of trust and fiduciary duty claims.
- Disputes relating to the administration of estates and trusts.
- Cross-border succession disputes and offshore trust litigation.
- Managing a varied caseload with appropriate supervision, while supporting on complex and high‑profile matters.
- Drafting high-quality pleadings, witness statements and client correspondence.
- Advising clients strategically, balancing technical advice with commercial and personal considerations.
- Preparing for and attending mediations, settlement discussions and court hearings.
- Advising trustees, executors and fiduciaries on duties, risk and dispute resolution strategies.
- Supporting business development initiatives, including client engagement and thought leadership.
Candidate Profile
- Experience in contentious trusts and probate / private wealth disputes gained at a well‑regarded firm.
- Strong technical knowledge of trust and estate litigation, including high‑value and cross‑border matters.
- Excellent drafting skills and attention to detail.
- Strong interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to build relationships with a sophisticated client base.
- Commercial awareness and an appreciation of the sensitive nature of private wealth disputes.
- A collaborative approach and the ability to work effectively across teams.
- STEP and/or ACTAPS qualification (or progress towards) is advantageous but not essential.
This opportunity offers high‑quality work, exposure to complex international matters and a clear platform for progression within a supportive and highly regarded team.
Contentious Trusts & Probate Associate- Leading Law Firm in London employer: Job Search Place Limited
Hunters Legal is a leading London law firm renowned for its collaborative and collegiate culture, offering an exceptional environment for professional growth and development. As a Contentious Trusts & Probate Associate, you will engage in high-value, complex disputes while benefiting from a supportive team that prioritises career progression and client relationships. With a focus on international matters and a diverse client base, this role provides a unique opportunity to enhance your expertise in a dynamic legal landscape.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Contentious Trusts & Probate Associate- Leading Law Firm in London
✨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 Informational Interview
Set up informal chats with folks already working in contentious trusts and probate. Ask them about their experiences and insights into the firm culture. This not only shows your interest but also helps us understand what they value in candidates, giving you an edge when applying through our website.
✨Showcase Your Expertise
Prepare to discuss your knowledge of contentious trusts and probate during interviews. Bring examples of past cases or scenarios where you’ve made a difference. We want to see how you think strategically and handle complex situations, so don’t hold back!
✨Follow Up Like a Boss
After any interview or networking event, send a quick thank-you note. It’s a simple gesture that keeps you top of mind and shows your professionalism. Plus, we love seeing candidates who are proactive and engaged!
We think you need these skills to ace Contentious Trusts & Probate Associate- Leading Law Firm in London
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter for the Contentious Trusts & Probate Associate role. Highlight your relevant experience in contentious trusts and probate, and show us how your skills align with what we're looking for.
Showcase Your Drafting Skills:Since excellent drafting is key for this role, include examples of your previous work that demonstrate your attention to detail and ability to produce high-quality legal documents. We want to see your best writing!
Be Authentic:Let your personality shine through in your application. We value a collaborative approach, so don’t hesitate to share your experiences working in teams and how you’ve built relationships with clients in the past.
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 dynamic team!
How to prepare for a job interview at Job Search Place Limited
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of contentious trusts and probate law. Familiarise yourself with key cases, recent developments, and the specific challenges that come with high-value and cross-border disputes. This will show your potential employer that you're not just interested in the role, but that you’re genuinely passionate about the field.
✨Showcase Your Drafting Skills
Since drafting high-quality pleadings and witness statements is a big part of the job, 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 demonstrate your attention to detail and your ability to communicate complex legal concepts clearly.
✨Emphasise Collaboration
This firm values a collaborative culture, so highlight your experience working in teams. Share examples of how you've successfully collaborated with colleagues across different departments or disciplines, especially in high-pressure situations. This will show that you can thrive in their supportive environment.
✨Prepare for Client Scenarios
Expect questions about how you would handle sensitive client situations, particularly in high-stakes disputes. Think through some hypothetical scenarios and how you would approach them, balancing technical advice with the emotional aspects of private wealth disputes. This will illustrate your commercial awareness and understanding of client relationships.