Contentious Probate Solicitor - The Legists : Job Details

Senior Solicitor / Associate – Contentious Probate (Hybrid)

Location: Hybrid role, with 2 days per week in the office, either Berkshire, Buckinghamshire, or Oxfordshire.

Salary: £60,000 – £80,000 per annum

About Firm

Specialist family law practice with offices across Berkshire, Oxfordshire and Buckinghamshire. We are a solicitor-led, client-centric firm committed to providing empathetic, transparent, and high-quality legal services. Our team includes solicitors, mediators, and collaborative lawyers who pride themselves on clear strategies, prompt correspondence, and emotional support during challenging times.

Recognised for our exceptional professionalism, described by the Legal 500 as a “thoroughly professional team”, we cover a wide range of family law matters: from divorce, financial remedies, child arrangements, and mediation to wills, inheritance issues, trusts, and contentious probate.

Founded in November 2011 operates as a Private Limited Company (active and SRA-regulated).

Opportunity

This is a strategic opportunity to lead and shape a contentious Probate division. You will be developing this department from scratch, but with the advantage of a steady flow of inquiries already in place to build upon. You will take ownership of developing this area, driving business growth, forging client relationships, and growing a team around you.

Key Responsibilities:

• Lead and manage a diverse caseload of contentious probate matters, including will disputes, challenges to executorship, and trust litigation.
• Provide expert and empathetic legal advice to high-net-worth and vulnerable clients.
• Draft pleadings, statements of case, negotiating proposals, and advocacy in mediation or court proceedings.
• Build and expand the contested probate practice: identifying market opportunities, leading business development activities, and cultivating referral networks.
• Provide mentorship and training to junior solicitors or paralegals as the team grows.
• Collaborate closely with the broader family law and inheritance team to offer seamless, holistic services.

Qualifications & Experience:

• Qualified solicitor admitted to the roll in England & Wales, with current SRA registration.
• Extensive experience (8+ years PQE) in contentious probate, trust claims, or estate litigation.
• Proven track record of handling complex, high-value cases and delivering successful outcomes.
• Excellent communication and negotiation skills with a client-focused and empathetic approach.
• Entrepreneurial mindset with an appetite for growing a new business area.
• Ability to work effectively within a small team and autonomously when developing your division.
• Membership of relevant professional bodies (e.g. STEP, Law Society’s Wills & Inheritance Accreditation).

Why Join Practice?

• Impact & Ownership: Shape your own division and leave a legacy in the firm.
• Supportive Culture: Join a team known for empathy, transparency, and genuine care for clients.
• Work-Life Balance: Hybrid model provides flexibility between office locations and remote work.
• Solid Foundation: Work within a respected, professionally recognised firm with a growing brand and positive client testimonials.

Application:

To apply, please submit your CV, cover letter outlining your relevant contested probate experience, and your vision for growing a contested probate division.