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
Payne Hicks Beach LLP is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work environment in the heart of London where you can thrive as an Elite Commercial Property Solicitor. With a strong emphasis on professional development and bespoke client service, employees benefit from engaging with high-value matters and collaborative cross-departmental teams, fostering both personal and career growth. The firm's commitment to excellence and supportive culture makes it an ideal place for those seeking meaningful and rewarding employment.
