Private Client Solicitor

Description:

Role: Private Client Solicitor

Salary: £45k-£50k dependent on experience

Location: Barry

Hours: Monday – Friday (9am – 5pm) (1 day Hybrid)

Role Description

The right candidate will be able to provide legal advice and support to individuals and families on a range of private client matters, including wills, probate, estate administration, trusts, lasting powers of attorney and inheritance tax planning.

The successful candidate will manage their own caseload, build strong client relationships, and deliver a high standard of legal service. They will ensure that all matters are handled efficiently, sensitively and in accordance with relevant legislation, professional standards, and the firm's procedures.

The role will involve maintaining and nurturing the client base whilst actively raising the profile of the firm and partaking in business development.

Key Responsibilities

Wills and Estate Planning

* Draft, review and update wills in accordance with clients' wishes

* Advise clients on estate planning, inheritance, and the distribution of assets

* Explain the legal implications of different estate planning options

* Identify opportunities to protect family wealth and plan for future generations

Probate and Estate Administration

* Advise executors and beneficiaries on the probate process.

* Prepare and submit applications for grants of probate and letters of administration

* Administer estates, including identifying assets, settling liabilities, and distributing funds to beneficiaries

* Liaise with banks, financial institutions, HM Revenue & Customs, beneficiaries, and other relevant parties

* Prepare estate accounts and ensure that all relevant deadlines are met

Trusts and Inheritance Tax Planning

* Advise clients on the creation and administration of trusts

* Assist trustees in understanding and fulfilling their legal responsibilities

* Provide advice on inheritance tax and relevant exemptions and reliefs

* Work alongside accountants, financial advisers, and other professionals where appropriate

Lasting Powers of Attorney and Capacity Matters

* Advise clients on the preparation and registration of lasting powers of attorney

* Explain the legal arrangements available for managing financial affairs and health and welfare decisions

* Assist clients and families with relevant Court of Protection matters, where required

Client Relationship Management

* Conduct client meetings and take detailed instructions. Explain complex legal matters clearly and sensitively

* Maintain regular communication with clients and provide updates on the progress of their cases

* Handle confidential information professionally and maintain accurate client records

* Develop and maintain positive relationships with clients and professional contacts

Compliance and Case Management

* Manage a caseload effectively, prioritising work and meeting deadlines

* Ensure compliance with relevant legislation, the Solicitors Regulation Authority's requirements and the firm's internal policies

Essential Requirements

* Qualified solicitor or CILEX Qualified for 3 years plus (Additional Probate Practice Rights essential for CILEX qualified lawyers)

* Good working knowledge of wills, probate, estate administration, and lasting powers of attorney

* Strong legal drafting, research, and analytical skills

* Excellent written and verbal communication skills

* Ability to manage a varied caseload and work independently

* Strong organisational skills and attention to detail.

* A professional, empathetic, and client-focused approach.

* Confident networking and spearheading business development