Contentious Trusts

Contentious Trusts & Probate Solicitor - Senior Associate or Partner
Location: Hybrid (St Albans, UK)
Salary: Competitive, based on experience
Contract: Full-time, Permanent
PQE: 6+ years (Senior Associate/Partner level)

The Opportunity
A well-established and highly regarded law firm is seeking an experienced Contentious Trusts & Probate Solicitor to join its respected Wills, Trusts & Probate team at a Senior Associate or Partner level. This is an excellent opportunity for a specialist in this field to handle high-value and complex disputes, contribute to the growth of the department, and support the development of junior lawyers.

The firm's Legal 500 Tier 1 and Chambers HNW Band 1 ranked team is one of the largest and most experienced in Hertfordshire, attracting a diverse client base, including high-net-worth individuals, trustees, executors, and beneficiaries across the UK.

The Role
The successful candidate will advise on a broad range of contentious probate and trust disputes, including:

1. Executor and trustee disputes, including applications for removal and breach of duty claims.
2. Challenges to wills and trusts, including validity disputes.
3. Claims under the Inheritance (Provision for Family and Dependants) Act 1975.
4. Court of Protection disputes, including contested powers of attorney.
5. Liaising with third parties, experts, and other professionals.
6. Supervising and mentoring junior solicitors.
7. Business development and networking, helping to expand the department's client base.

Candidate Requirements

1. 6+ years PQE in contentious trusts and probate (4+ years PQE considered for exceptional candidates).
2. Strong technical expertise in probate litigation, trust disputes, and Inheritance Act claims.
3. ACTAPS or SFE accreditation (or willingness to obtain one) is highly desirable.
4. A proven ability to build strong relationships with clients, referrers, and colleagues.
5. A commercial mindset with a proactive approach to business development.
6. Experience supervising and supporting junior team members.
7. Strong written and verbal communication skills.
8. Familiarity with case management systems and electronic filing is advantageous.

Why Join?

1. Work within a Legal 500 Tier 1 and Chambers Band 1 ranked team.
2. Opportunity to handle high-profile, complex contentious probate cases.
3. Clear career progression, including partnership opportunities.
4. Hybrid working arrangements.
5. A collaborative and supportive team culture.

This is an excellent opportunity for an ambitious solicitor looking to further develop their career in a leading contentious trusts and probate practice.