At a Glance
- Tasks: Join a dynamic team delivering high-quality legal services to clients across the North East.
- Company: Well-established private client practice with ambitious growth plans.
- Benefits: Enhanced pension scheme, 25 days annual leave, and structured career progression.
- Other info: Collaborative environment with opportunities for continuous professional development.
- Why this job: Make a real impact while developing specialist expertise in private client law.
- Qualifications: Minimum 2 years PQE with strong knowledge of Private Client law.
The predicted salary is between 40000 - 50000 £ per year.
This is a Permanent, Full Time vacancy that will close in 2 days at 23:59 BST.
An exciting opportunity has become available for an experienced Solicitor / Associate to join our private client department. Based in Newcastle, the successful candidate will play a pivotal role in delivering high‑quality legal services across the North East; working closely with Partners and other senior fee earners to support the provision of a comprehensive range of services, including assisting high‑net‑worth individuals, families, business owners, and trustees in a broad range of matters; while also supporting on complex and high‑value estate planning work.
This is an excellent opportunity for a motivated and client‑focused individual to join a collaborative, forward‑thinking, and high‑performing team within a well‑established and growing private client practice. With a strong and varied caseload, ambitious growth plans and an expanding client base, the role offers the chance to develop specialist expertise across private client matters while benefiting from genuine, structured career progression within a supportive environment.
What will I be doing
- Drafting bespoke Wills (including trust structures), LPAs, and related documents, ensuring proper execution
- Advising on inheritance tax mitigation, estate planning, and wealth preservation strategies
- Managing Trust matters including creation, administration, reviews, trustee advice, and associated documentation
- Handling complex estate administration (testate and intestate), including high‑value, business, and cross‑border assets
- Providing advice on business succession planning and collaborating with teams including Corporate, Family, and Real Estate
- Liaising with international lawyers and professional advisers (accountants, tax advisers, financial planners) to deliver coordinated advice
- Ensuring HMRC compliance and regulatory adherence, including maintaining precedents and risk procedures
- Building strong client relationships, contributing to business development, and maintaining up‑to‑date legal knowledge through continuous professional development
You’ll have
- Ideally a minimum of 2 years PQE (4 years for those at Associate level) with experience in handling high‑value and complex matters, including working with business owners
- Strong technical knowledge of Private Client law and understanding of related practice areas (Corporate, Family, Real Estate)
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to explain complex issues clearly
- Strong planning skills, be highly organised and possess the ability to manage workload independently and meet deadlines
- Strong interpersonal skills with the ability to build relationships and tailor approach to diverse clients
- A demonstrable problem‑solving ability, sound judgement, and excellent attention to detail
- A commercially aware mindset, be proactive, resilient, and have effective prioritisation, IT and file management skills
- A positive, flexible, and collaborative approach, be motivated to learn and develop and have an appetite for developing business development skills
It would also be great if you had
- A STEP qualification, be working towards one or have a willingness to work towards this.
- Full UK driving licence, with access to a reliable vehicle or the ability to travel easily between locations (as business need dictates) using alternative transport.
What we can offer you
- An enhanced pension scheme with employer matched contributions of up to 6%.
- 25 days annual leave +
Solicitor / Associate employer: Ward Hadaway
Join a dynamic and supportive team in Newcastle, where your expertise as a Solicitor / Associate will be valued in delivering high-quality legal services to a diverse clientele. With a strong focus on employee growth, you will benefit from structured career progression, an enhanced pension scheme, and a collaborative work culture that encourages continuous professional development. This is an exceptional opportunity to thrive in a well-established private client practice with ambitious growth plans and a commitment to excellence.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Solicitor / Associate
✨Get Involved in Law Societies
Join local law societies and attend their events – they're often a goldmine for networking and job opportunities in the legal field. Plus, it’s a great way to meet other budding lawyers and experienced solicitors who could provide vital insights and connections.
✨Tap into Online Legal Communities
Don’t underestimate the power of online platforms like LinkedIn and specific legal forums. Get active in discussions or share your thoughts on recent legal developments – this not only builds your visibility but also showcases your passion and knowledge in law.
✨Attend Career Fairs and Workshops
Look out for career fairs and workshops specifically focused on law. Many law firms, including Ward Hadaway, will be scouting for fresh talent, so bring your A-game and don’t shy away from making a memorable impression.
✨Leverage Your University’s Career Services
If you’re still in university or have recently graduated, latch onto your career services! They often have connections with law firms looking for graduates and can guide you through the application process tailored for the legal sector.
We think you need these skills to ace Solicitor / Associate
Some tips for your application 🫡
Highlight Your Legal Knowledge:When applying for a full-time role in legal services at Ward Hadaway, 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 Ward Hadaway and the specific role of Solicitor / Associate. 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 Ward Hadaway’s culture!
How to prepare for a job interview at Ward Hadaway
✨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 Ward Hadaway.
✨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 Ward Hadaway.
