At a Glance
- Tasks: Help clients with wills, probate, and estate planning while travelling to meet them.
- Company: Join a forward-thinking law firm in East Lancashire with a supportive culture.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, professional development, and opportunities for growth.
- Other info: Dynamic role with opportunities to mentor and develop others.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in clients' lives during sensitive times.
- Qualifications: Experience in wills and probate law, strong communication skills.
The predicted salary is between 35000 - 45000 £ per year.
We are seeking a client focussed and enthusiastic Wills and Probate Associate Solicitor to join us in East Lancashire. The role involves regular travel between WHN offices, to local events and to clients’ homes. This is a fantastic opportunity for an individual looking to join a forward thinking and successful firm.
The successful candidate will advise and guide clients expertly and compassionately on all matters regarding wills, probate and estate planning.
Principal Responsibilities- Drafting and Reviewing Legal Documents:
- Drafting Wills: Create wills that accurately reflect the client's wishes regarding the distribution of their estate, guardianship of minor children, and other personal directives.
- Drafting Complex Wills: Incorporating discretionary and life interest trusts and dealing with businesses and farms.
- Powers of Attorney: Prepare lasting powers of attorney (LPA) for property and financial affairs, as well as health and welfare, ensuring clients' preferences are legally documented.
- Reviewing Documents: Examine existing wills, trusts, and other legal documents to ensure they are up-to date and comply with current laws and the client's intentions.
- Estate Administration:
- Applying for Probate: Handle the process of applying for a grant of probate or letters of administration, which gives the legal authority to manage the deceased's estate.
- Asset Collection and Distribution: Identify, collect, and value the deceased's assets, pay any outstanding debts and taxes, and distribute the remaining assets to the beneficiaries as per the will or intestacy rules.
- Tax Compliance: Ensure all necessary tax returns are filed, including inheritance tax, income tax, and capital gains tax, and that any tax liabilities are settled.
- Record Keeping: Maintain accurate and detailed records of all transactions and communications related to the estate administration process.
- Implementing Trusts created in a Will: Registering the trust following death and drafting any related documentation such as Deeds of Appointment.
- Client Consultation and Advice:
- Initial Consultations: Meet with clients to understand their needs and objectives, providing tailored advice on estate planning, will drafting, and trust creation.
- Ongoing Advice: Offer continuous support and guidance to clients, addressing any questions or concerns they may have throughout the process.
- Inheritance Tax Planning: Advise clients on strategies to minimize inheritance tax liabilities, such as making lifetime gifts, setting up trusts, and utilising available reliefs and exemptions including advising and preparing Deeds of Variation following a death.
- Sensitive Communication: Handle discussions with empathy and sensitivity, especially when dealing with bereaved clients or complex family dynamics.
- Development of others: Contribute to the development of colleagues who are less experienced including paralegals, trainees, apprentices and administrative colleagues.
- Effective time management: Manage your time effectively ensuring time recording is accurate to generate appropriate fees whilst maintaining high standards of client care.
- Work diligently complying with the professional standards as defined in the Office Manual and by the SRA, Lexcel, the CQS and the Legal Aid Agency.
- Ensure all information regarding the firm, its clients and their business is kept strictly confidential.
- Wherever possible, utilise available software to provide a quality, cost effective and efficient service to clients.
- Take responsibility including proactively participating in activities to ensure your personal development is maintained including keeping up to date with the changes in the area of law in which you practice.
- Understand the firm's marketing strategy, contribute to business development initiatives, including networking and attend and positively represent the firm at industry events when appropriate.
- Any other such duties that will assist in the growth and development of the department/firm to support the effective operation of the business.
Wills and Probate - Associate Solicitor in Accrington employer: Woodcocks Haworth & Nuttall Solicitors
Join a dynamic and client-focused firm in East Lancashire as a Wills and Probate Associate Solicitor, where you will have the opportunity to make a meaningful impact on clients' lives. Our supportive work culture fosters professional growth, offering continuous development opportunities while ensuring a compassionate approach to sensitive matters. With regular engagement in local events and a commitment to excellence, we provide a rewarding environment for those looking to advance their legal careers.
Contact Details:
Woodcocks Haworth & Nuttall Solicitors Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Wills and Probate - Associate Solicitor in Accrington
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Attend local events and industry meet-ups to connect with potential employers and other professionals in the field. Don’t be shy; introduce yourself and share your passion for wills and probate law!
✨Tip Number 2
Showcase your expertise! Prepare a portfolio of your work, including examples of wills and estate plans you've drafted. This will not only impress potential employers but also give them a taste of your skills and client-focused approach.
✨Tip Number 3
Be proactive! Reach out directly to firms you admire, even if they’re not advertising vacancies. A well-crafted email expressing your interest can open doors and show your enthusiasm for joining their team.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! We make it easy for you to submit your application and showcase your qualifications. Plus, it shows you’re serious about wanting to join our forward-thinking firm!
We think you need these skills to ace Wills and Probate - Associate Solicitor in Accrington
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter for the Wills and Probate Associate Solicitor role. Highlight your relevant experience in drafting wills, estate administration, and client consultations to show us you’re the perfect fit!
Show Your Client Focus:We want to see your enthusiasm for client care! Share examples of how you've handled sensitive situations or provided tailored advice in the past. This will help us understand your approach to client relationships.
Be Clear and Concise:When writing your application, keep it straightforward and to the point. Use clear language to describe your skills and experiences, making it easy for us to see why you’d be a great addition to our team.
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for this exciting opportunity with our forward-thinking firm.
How to prepare for a job interview at Woodcocks Haworth & Nuttall Solicitors
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you brush up on the key areas of wills and probate law. Familiarise yourself with recent changes in legislation and be ready to discuss how they impact clients. This shows your commitment to staying current and your ability to provide expert advice.
✨Show Empathy
Given the sensitive nature of the role, practice how you would communicate with clients who may be grieving or dealing with complex family situations. Prepare examples of how you've handled difficult conversations in the past, as this will demonstrate your ability to connect with clients compassionately.
✨Demonstrate Client Focus
Think about how you can tailor your approach to meet individual client needs. Be ready to share specific examples of how you've provided personalised service in previous roles, highlighting your ability to listen and adapt to client requirements.
✨Prepare Questions
Have a list of thoughtful questions ready to ask the interviewers. This could include inquiries about the firm's approach to client care, opportunities for professional development, or how they handle complex cases. It shows you're genuinely interested in the role and the firm.
