Sophia at Avocet Legal Careers is delighted to present an excellent opportunity for a dedicated Probate Lawyer to join a reputable Private Client team in Taunton.
This is an exciting opportunity to take ownership of a diverse probate caseload while building your career within a well-established and supportive legal practice.
About the Client
Our client is a well-respected law firm with multiple offices across Somerset, delivering comprehensive legal services to clients throughout the region. They have built a strong reputation for their private client work, particularly in probate, wills, and estate planning. The firm is committed to creating a supportive and inclusive culture where employees can develop their careers while maintaining excellent work-life balance. With a strong focus on professional development and employee wellbeing, they offer an environment where talented lawyers can truly flourish.
About the Role
This is a fantastic opportunity to join an established Private Client department, taking full responsibility for your own probate and estate administration caseload. You'll be advising clients on the full spectrum of private client matters including wills, trusts, powers of attorney, and tax planning, while guiding executors and beneficiaries through the estate administration process. The role offers genuine autonomy alongside team collaboration, with excellent opportunities to develop lasting client relationships and get involved in practice development activities.
Probate Lawyer Responsibilities
- Taking full responsibility for probate and estate administration files from initial instruction through to conclusion
- Advising clients on the preparation of wills, establishment of trusts, creation of lasting powers of attorney, and inheritance tax planning
- Preparing comprehensive legal documentation including wills and trust instruments
- Coordinating with executors, beneficiaries, HMRC, and other third parties throughout the administration process
- Submitting applications for Grants of Probate and Letters of Administration
- Maintaining compliance with regulatory requirements and professional standards
- Delivering exceptional client service and developing strong, long-term client relationships
- Supporting practice growth through networking and business development activities
- Managing files in accordance with the firm's quality management procedures
Probate Lawyer Requirements
- Qualified Solicitor in England and Wales (ideally 3+ years' PQE, though newly qualified solicitors with strong relevant experience will be considered)
- Demonstrable experience handling probate and estate administration matters
- Strong interpersonal and communication abilities
- Excellent organisational skills with meticulous attention to detail
- Capability to work autonomously and manage competing priorities
- Competent with case management software and Microsoft Office applications
- STEP membership or working towards accreditation would be advantageous but is not required
- Client-focused approach with dedication to high-quality service delivery
- Effective time management and prioritisation skills
- Collaborative mindset with positive, can-do attitude
- Openness to embracing new systems and technology
Benefits
- Competitive salary
- Company health cash plan
- Enhanced annual leave
- Social events and seasonal gifts
- Recruitment referral scheme
- Ongoing professional development and training
- Supportive and inclusive working environment
The Ideal Candidate
The ideal candidate will be a technically accomplished probate lawyer with genuine enthusiasm for private client work. You'll combine strong legal knowledge with excellent interpersonal skills and the ability to guide clients through what can be difficult and emotional situations with sensitivity and professionalism. A confident self-manager who also thrives as part of a team, you'll take pride in delivering thorough, high-quality advice while building trusted relationships with clients and colleagues alike. Your attention to detail, strong organisational abilities, and commitment to professional excellence will set you up for success in this fulfilling role.
For a confidential discussion about this exciting opportunity, please contact Sophia at Avocet Legal Careers:
📱 01392 642518
📨 sophia@avocetlegal.co.uk