At a Glance
- Tasks: Manage a diverse caseload in contentious trusts and estates, including litigation and client relations.
- Company: Dynamic law firm with a collaborative and supportive team environment.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, health insurance, life assurance, and pension scheme.
- Other info: Opportunities for professional development and networking.
- Why this job: Join a leading team and make a real impact in the legal field.
- Qualifications: Qualified solicitor with 2-3 years PQE in contentious trusts and estates.
The predicted salary is between 50000 - 60000 £ per year.
The firm is looking to recruit a 2‑3 year PQE for our Contentious Trusts & Estates team.
Team Composition
The team comprises three partners, two legal directors, three senior associates and three junior associates.
Role
The successful candidate will assist with and manage, under appropriate supervision, a varied caseload including:
- Claims under the Inheritance (Provision for Family and Dependants) Act 1975.
- Will validity disputes, including challenges based on lack of testamentary capacity, undue influence, want of knowledge and approval, and fraud.
- Domestic and international trust disputes.
- Breach of trust and fiduciary duty claims.
- Executor and trustee removal applications.
- Court of Protection and attorney disputes.
- Proprietary estoppel and constructive trust claims.
- Disputes involving charitable trusts and foundations.
- Alternative dispute resolution, including mediation and settlement negotiations.
- High Court litigation and procedural matters.
The role will also involve:
- Managing matters efficiently and proactively.
- Drafting correspondence, witness statements and other documentation.
- Conducting legal research and preparing advice for clients.
- Attending mediations, conferences, hearings and client meetings.
- Building and maintaining strong client relationships.
- Assisting with business development initiatives, networking and profile-raising activities.
- Contributing to knowledge sharing and team development.
Individual
The ideal candidate will have the following skills and attributes:
- Qualified solicitor ideally in England & Wales with 2–3 years’ PQE.
- Experience gained in a recognised contentious trusts and estates practice.
- Strong technical knowledge of contentious probate, trusts and estate disputes.
- Experience of High Court litigation procedures.
- Excellent drafting, analytical and communication skills.
- Strong organisational and matter management abilities.
- Commercial awareness and a client‑focused approach.
- Ability to work effectively both independently and as part of a team.
- Strong academics.
- Ability to be proactive and reactive in addressing clients’ affairs and requirements.
- Ability to help build upon the firm’s existing business.
- Ability to get on well with the clients who cover a broad spectrum.
- Ability to keep abreast of changes in legislation and market developments.
- A practical working knowledge of IT.
Key Skills and Personal attributes
- Intelligent and commercially minded.
- Collaborative and approachable.
- Strong attention to detail.
- Resilient and capable of managing competing priorities.
- Motivated to develop a specialist practice and build long‑term client relationships.
- Confident and sociable as well as discrete when dealing directly with clients.
Remuneration Package
Market rate.
Other Benefits
- 4x Life Assurance
- Permanent Health Insurance
- WPA Medical Insurance
- BUPA Health Assessment
- Bluecrest Health Assessment
- EAP Scheme
- Auto enrolment in the firm’s Group Personal Pension Scheme
- Discretionary Bonus Scheme and Introduction Bonus Scheme
- Interest‑free season ticket loan after three months
Contentious Trust 2-3 Years PQE in London employer: Payne Hicks Beach LLP
As a leading firm in the legal sector, we pride ourselves on fostering a collaborative and supportive work culture that empowers our employees to thrive. Our Contentious Trusts & Estates team offers exceptional opportunities for professional growth, with access to a diverse caseload and a commitment to ongoing development through training and mentorship. Located in a vibrant area, we provide a competitive remuneration package alongside comprehensive benefits, ensuring our team members feel valued and motivated in their roles.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Contentious Trust 2-3 Years PQE in London
✨Get Involved in Law Societies
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We think you need these skills to ace Contentious Trust 2-3 Years PQE in London
Some tips for your application 🫡
Highlight Your Legal Knowledge:When applying for a full-time role in legal services at Payne Hicks Beach LLP, make sure to demonstrate your understanding of key legal principles and areas of law relevant to the position. Include any specific coursework, modules, or certifications, like LPC or BPTC qualifications, that showcase your legal expertise directly on your CV.
Showcase Your Research Skills:In the legal field, strong research skills are crucial. Use your application to illustrate how you've utilised these skills in past studies or work experiences – whether that's through past internships or significant projects. Mention any legal databases or tools you’re proficient in, as this can give you an edge.
Tailor That Cover Letter!:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Make it personal by expressing your genuine interest in Payne Hicks Beach LLP and the specific role of Contentious Trust 2-3 Years PQE. Talk about why you want to be part of their team, how your unique experiences align with their values, and why you’re passionate about the legal sector.
Stay Formal but Friendly:While we all know the legal world can be pretty formal, don’t be afraid to let a bit of personality shine through in your written application. Use a respectful tone, but feel free to inject a little warmth; this approach can help you stand out and show you're a great fit for Payne Hicks Beach LLP’s culture!
How to prepare for a job interview at Payne Hicks Beach LLP
✨Know Your Legal Principles
Brush up on foundational legal principles relevant to the specific area of law you’re applying for, whether it’s corporate, criminal, or family law. We might get asked situational questions to test your knowledge, so being articulate about key concepts will make you stand out.
✨Be Ready for Case Studies
Full-time legal roles often involve case studies during interviews. Prepare to analyse a hypothetical case and discuss your approach to it. Practising this with a peer or mentor can help us refine our reasoning and articulate a solid legal argument.
✨Show Off Your Research Skills
As legal professionals, strong research skills are a must. Have examples ready of how you've effectively used legal databases or conducted thorough legal research in your past experiences. It's a great way to demonstrate your readiness for the role at Payne Hicks Beach LLP.
✨Exude Professionalism and Confidence
In the legal field, professionalism is key. During the interview, we should maintain good eye contact and communicate clearly to show that we’re not just knowledgeable, but also confident. This can make a positive impression on your potential colleagues at Payne Hicks Beach LLP.
