Introduction
About us
We’re Swinburne Maddison, a modern law firm rooted in traditional values like trust, care, collaboration, and agility. These principles have guided us for over 25 years, and they remain at our core. As an award-winning firm, we proudly build on our rich heritage while adapting to the evolving needs of our clients. We’re committed to doing things the right way, putting people first and delivering exceptional service.
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.
The role
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)
- 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.
Required experience, skills and attributes
We’re looking for a 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.
Closing Date
25 September 2026
Employee benefits
We care about our people. When you join Swinburne Maddison, you’re not just stepping into a job - you’re joining a team that genuinely wants you to enjoy your work, build your career and feel supported along the way.
Here’s what you can expect when you join us:
- Hybrid working options after three months (work-life balance matters!)
- Flexible working options for the days where you may need some extra time
- A competitive salary tailored to your experience
- Clear career progression with a published professional development plan
- Generous holiday allowance plus the option to buy extra days
- Pension salary sacrifice scheme to help your money go further
- Health cashback plan to claim back the cost of everyday healthcare
- Perkbox membership – packed with discounts, freebies, and wellness perks
- Enhanced family leave to support you through life’s important moments
- Death in service benefit for peace of mind
- A friendly, down-to-earth team that really values collaboration and support
- Collaborative working in a flexible and forward-thinking environment
- Free car parking – subject to availability
Senior Private Client Lawyer in Durham employer: Swinburne Maddison
At Swinburne Maddison, we pride ourselves on being a top-tier corporate law firm that not only values excellence in legal practice but also prioritises the growth and well-being of our employees. With a strong focus on collaboration and support, we offer a competitive salary, hybrid working options, and clear career progression opportunities, all within a friendly and dynamic environment. Join us to be part of a team that is committed to pushing boundaries and fostering talent while delivering exceptional service to our diverse range of clients.
