At a Glance
- Tasks: Manage your own caseload in wills, estates, and trusts while mentoring junior lawyers.
- Company: Join a respected law firm known for its compassionate client care and technical excellence.
- Benefits: Enjoy a vibrant co-working space, growth opportunities, and a supportive team culture.
- Other info: Work primarily at our modern head office near Durham, with some time at Flok in Teesside.
- Why this job: Be part of a forward-thinking team that values empathy and professional development.
- Qualifications: Qualified lawyer with 4+ years PQE in private client work; STEP qualification preferred.
The predicted salary is between 43200 - 72000 £ per year.
We are seeking a talented and driven Senior Private Client Lawyer to join our dynamic team and deliver expert legal advice across a wide spectrum of private client matters. You’ll be working alongside lawyers, well known for their technical excellence and commitment to outstanding client service.
You’ll be involved in:
- Advising on, implementing and running complex wills, lifetime trusts, deeds of variation, powers of attorney, and estate administration.
- Lifetime Inheritance Tax planning and taxation of trusts and estates.
- Family/wealth protection and strategic planning.
- Probate and estate administration.
- Elderly client and capacity issues.
- Court of Protection matters, desirable but not essential.
- Trust creation and administration.
This role provides the opportunity to work on complex estates and trusts for individuals, rural and agricultural estates, landowners and business owners across the North East and UK.
Life at Swinburne Maddison is all about growth, opportunity, and being surrounded by great people. We believe in pushing boundaries, fostering talent, and creating an environment where people thrive. In 2025, we were named Law Firm of the Year at the Northern Law Awards, with four teams ranked Tier One in The Legal 500 and 22 lawyers individually recognised.
Required experience, skill and attributes
We’re looking for a senior qualified lawyer with demonstrable experience in private client law.
Here’s what we’d love you to bring to the table:
- Commercial awareness: You understand the realities of private client work and the pressures facing individuals, families, and business owners.
- Proactive mindset: You take initiative, manage your own time well, and are keen to take ownership of your work. You’re curious, resourceful, and ready to grow your career in private client law.
- Attention to detail & technical excellence: You take pride in precision, whether drafting wills, trusts, or advising on complex estate matters.
- Strong communication: You’re articulate, empathetic, and professional, able to build trust with clients and colleagues alike.
- Organisation skills: You’re comfortable managing multiple matters and deadlines, even when priorities shift.
- Team player attitude: You enjoy collaborating with others, sharing knowledge, and contributing to a supportive, high-performing team.
We are proud of our team’s STEP qualifications and would be interested in hearing from those who are STEP qualified, working towards STEP qualification, or interested in pursuing it.
Applications close on Friday 25th September 2026
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Private Client Lawyer in North East employer: Swinburne Maddison LLP
Swinburne Maddison LLP is an excellent employer, offering a dynamic work environment where senior lawyers can thrive while leading high-value deals in commercial property. With a strong focus on professional development, mentorship opportunities, and a collaborative culture, employees are encouraged to grow their skills and advance their careers. Located in a vibrant area, the firm provides a supportive atmosphere that values innovation and client relationships, making it an attractive place for those seeking meaningful and rewarding employment.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Private Client Lawyer in North East
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the specific areas of private client law mentioned in the job description, such as wills, estates, and trusts. This will not only help you understand the role better but also allow you to engage in meaningful conversations during interviews.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with professionals in the private client sector, especially those who are STEP qualified. Attend relevant legal events or seminars to build connections and gain insights into the latest trends and challenges in the field.
✨Tip Number 3
Demonstrate your proactive approach by preparing thoughtful questions about the firm’s culture and the Private Client team’s dynamics. This shows your genuine interest in the role and helps you assess if it’s the right fit for you.
✨Tip Number 4
Highlight your experience in managing a caseload effectively during any discussions. Be ready to share examples of how you've successfully handled competing priorities and maintained strong client relationships in your previous roles.
We think you need these skills to ace Private Client Lawyer in North East
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV highlights your relevant experience in private client work. Emphasise your qualifications, particularly if you have STEP accreditation, and detail your caseload management skills.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Write a cover letter that reflects your proactive approach and attention to detail. Share specific examples of how you've supported clients through complex situations and how you embody the empathy and professionalism the firm values.
Showcase Your Communication Skills:In your application, demonstrate your strong communication abilities. You might include examples of how you've built lasting relationships with clients or collaborated effectively within a team.
Highlight Your Team Player Attitude:Mention any experiences where you've contributed to a positive working environment or mentored junior colleagues. This will show that you align with the firm's values of collaboration and growth.
How to prepare for a job interview at Swinburne Maddison LLP
✨Show Your Empathy
As a Private Client Lawyer, empathy is key. During the interview, share examples of how you've supported clients through difficult times, demonstrating your ability to connect on a personal level.
✨Highlight Your Attention to Detail
Discuss specific instances where your attention to detail made a significant difference in your work. This role requires precision, so showcasing your meticulous nature will resonate well with the interviewers.
✨Demonstrate Your Proactive Approach
Be prepared to talk about times when you took the initiative in your previous roles. Whether it was managing a complex case or mentoring junior lawyers, showing that you can take charge will set you apart.
✨Emphasise Team Collaboration
Since this role involves working closely with others, share experiences that highlight your teamwork skills. Discuss how you've contributed to a positive working environment and supported your colleagues in achieving common goals.
