Contentious Trusts and Probate, Senior Associate/Partner

Overview

In this role you will lead and shape a respected contentious trusts and probate team within a regional litigation practice. You will work closely with private client and litigation colleagues to deliver high‑quality, complex estate disputes for high‑net‑worth clients. You’ll handle will validity disputes, Inheritance Act claims, and breach of trust matters, while driving business development and team growth. The opportunity includes partnership potential and a flexible, hybrid setup across three offices, with a strong collaborative culture at its core.

Pay / Benefits

• 4x salary death in service (DIS) cover
• Private medical insurance (PMI)
• Attractive holiday allowance
• Flexible and hybrid working arrangements
• Choice of three regional offices
• Clear path to Partnership

Responsibilities

• Handle a wide range of contentious trusts and probate matters, including will validity disputes, Inheritance Act claims, and breach of trust claims
• Advise beneficiaries, executors, trustees, and high‑net‑worth individuals on complex disputes
• Represent clients in court proceedings, mediations, and other dispute resolution forums
• Draft pleadings, witness statements, and settlement agreements
• Lead and develop the contentious probate team, supervising junior solicitors and support staff
• Collaborate with wider litigation and private client teams to deliver seamless service
• Build and maintain relationships with referrers and professional intermediaries
• Engage in business development and help shape the team’s strategic direction
• Stay updated on legal developments and ensure regulatory compliance
• Shape and direct the future of the contentious probate team with experienced departmental support

Key requirements

• Minimum of 6 years’ PQE
• Experience at Partner level or senior associate ready to step up
• Strong contentious trusts and probate expertise
• Proven leadership capabilities and team management experience
• Ability to manage high‑profile, high‑net‑worth matters
• Excellent drafting and advocacy skills
• Strong relationship building and business development skills
• Flexible and collaborative, with a readiness to contribute to strategic direction

• Collaboration
• Ambition
• Client-focused
• Contentious trusts and probate
• Will validity disputes
• Inheritance Act claims

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