Probate Solicitor
3 days ago
St Helens
Job Title: Private Client Solicitor / Fee Earner / STEP-Qualified Practitioner (3+ Years PQE) Location: St Helens, Merseyside Contract: Full-time, 5 days per week Working Pattern: Hybrid working available following probation Overview An established and growing legal practice is seeking an experienced Private Client Solicitor, Fee Earner, or STEP-qualified practitioner with a minimum of 3 years’ PQE. This is an excellent opportunity to join a busy and supportive Private Client department handling a wide variety of complex matters. The successful candidate will manage a diverse caseload, work with a high degree of autonomy, and contribute to the supervision and development of junior colleagues. The role offers strong scope for progression in a professional and collaborative environment. Key Responsibilities Probate & Estate Administration • Manage a caseload of probate and estate administration matters from initial instruction through to final distribution., • Prepare and submit applications for Grants of Probate and Grants of Letters of Administration, including matters involving tax considerations, foreign assets, business or agricultural relief., • Handle intestate estates and navigate complex asset-tracing scenarios., • Draft comprehensive estate accounts (interim and final)., • Advise executors, administrators, trustees, and beneficiaries on procedural and tax-related issues., • Liaise with HMRC, financial institutions, estate agents, accountants, and other third parties. Wills, Trusts & Lifetime Planning • Draft Wills, Codicils, Deeds of Variation, and Letters of Wishes, including more complex arrangements involving tax efficiency or blended family structures., • Provide advice on inheritance tax planning, exemptions, reliefs, and long-term estate strategies., • Prepare and register Lasting Powers of Attorney and handle Court of Protection deputyship applications., • Support elderly and vulnerable clients with professionalism and empathy. Client Care & Compliance • Deliver exceptional client care with clear communication and proactive case progression., • Ensure compliance with SRA regulations, AML requirements, and internal risk protocols., • Use case management systems efficiently (experience with Proclaim is advantageous)., • Supervise and mentor junior team members where required. Essential Skills & Experience • Minimum of 3 years’ PQE in Private Client work or part/full STEP qualification., • Strong experience managing complex estates, trusts, and probate matters., • Excellent knowledge of relevant legislation and procedures., • High-quality drafting and communication skills., • Experience supervising junior staff or willingness to develop this responsibility., • Strong organisational skills, attention to detail, and the ability to work independently., • Compassionate and professional approach, especially when dealing with sensitive issues. Desirable Skills & Qualifications • Full STEP qualification (TEP) or advanced-level STEP study., • Knowledge of BPR, APR, trusts containing foreign assets, trust tax returns, and ongoing trust compliance., • Experience with contentious probate matters (not essential)., • Interest in contributing to team development and business growth. What’s on Offer • Competitive salary based on experience., • Hybrid working options after successful probation., • Clear opportunities for career progression within a supportive environment., • Ongoing professional development, including STEP support where relevant., • Access to specialist seminars, training, and webinars., • Positive, collaborative team culture., • Free on-site parking., • Company pension scheme.