Job title: Private Client Solicitor
Job type: Permanent
Industry: Legal
Sub-Functional Expertise: 5 Year PQE Senior Associate / Solicitor
Salary type: Annual
Salary: GBP £80,000.00
Location: London, UK
Job published: 2026-04-20
Job ID: 59384
Contact name: David Hawthorne-Finch
Phone number: +443339962882
Contact email: d.hawthorne-finch@h-fts.com

Job Description

Private Client Solicitor (5 PQE)

Salary: £65,000–£80,000 DOE 

Location: East London

 

High-quality caseload + clear progression

 

You’re 5 years PQE, you know your way around probate files properly, and you want a role where you can build long-term client relationships and be trusted with complex work, not just process it. This opportunity with our client (an established East London practice) offers exactly that, with a steady flow of private client instructions and genuine scope to step up as the team continues to grow.
 
It’s a great move for someone who wants a stable platform, strong support around them, and a role that can develop into a more senior position over time.
 

The Role (Private Client)

This is a full-time, permanent position based in East London (office-based, with working flexibility discussed at interview depending on experience and team requirements).
 
You’ll manage a varied private client caseload including:
  • Estate administration (probate and intestacy)
  • Applications for Grants of Representation
  • Inheritance Tax returns and related HMRC matters
  • Will drafting
  • Lasting Powers of Attorney (Property & Financial Affairs and Health & Welfare)
  • Court of Protection / deputyship matters (ideal if you have this already)

Key Responsibilities

  • Delivering a consistently high standard of client care, with sensitivity and discretion
  • Drafting and reviewing private client documents with strong technical accuracy
  • Running matters end-to-end and managing deadlines across a busy caseload
  • Liaising with third parties including HMRC, financial institutions, and other solicitors
  • Keeping up to date with relevant legislative changes and applying best practice
  • Advising on tax and estate planning considerations where appropriate

Requirements (5 PQE Focus)

You should have:
  • Around 5 years’ PQE in UK private client work
  • Strong hands-on experience in:
    • Probate and intestacy estates
    • Wills and LPAs
    • IHT returns / estate tax issues
  • Confidence in a client-facing role (clear communicator, professional, proactive)
  • Excellent organisation and attention to detail, with the ability to manage competing priorities
Qualifications:
  • Qualified Solicitor in England & Wales (or equivalent with substantial UK private client experience)

Salary & Benefits

  • Salary: £65,000–£80,000 depending on experience (aligned to 5 PQE private client market in East London)
  • Permanent, full-time position
  • Established firm and stable caseload
  • Career progression: opportunity to develop towards senior fee-earner / supervisory responsibility as the department grows
  • Working arrangements and additional benefits to be confirmed at shortlist/interview stage (and can be tailored based on your expectations)

Apply / Enquire (Confidential)

For a confidential conversation or to apply, contact:
 
David Hawthorne-Finch
d.hawthorne-finch@h-fts.com
 
Send a CV, or message with your current salary, notice period, and preferred commute and I’ll advise on fit before you proceed.
 
Confidentiality: All applications and discussions will be handled in strict confidence.