Job title: Private Client Solicitor / Senior Associate
Job type: Permanent
Industry: Legal
Sub-Functional Expertise: 5 Year PQE Senior Associate / Solicitor
Salary type: Annual
Salary: GBP £75,000.00
Location: Dorking, UK
Job published: 2026-09-30
Job ID: 69797
Contact name: David Hawthorne-Finch
Phone number: +443339962882
Contact email: d.hawthorne-finch@h-fts.com

Job Description

Private Client Solicitor (5+ PQE)

Salary: £55,000 – £75,000 + Bonus

Location: Surrey | High-Quality Caseload & Career Progression

 

Make a Meaningful Impact in a Trusted Private Client Team

 

Our client, a well-established and highly regarded law firm in Surrey, is seeking an experienced Private Client Solicitor (5+ PQE) to join their respected team based in Dorking.

This is an excellent opportunity to handle a broad, high-quality caseload, working with a loyal client base while benefiting from a supportive, collaborative culture and clear career progression. The role is particularly suited to a solicitor who values long-term client relationships and delivering sensitive, high-calibre advice.

 

The Role – Trusted Adviser Across a Broad Private Client Caseload

You will take ownership of your own files while contributing to the continued development of the private client department.

Key Responsibilities:

  • Advise clients on a wide range of private client matters, including:
    • Wills and estate planning
    • Probate and estate administration
    • Lasting Powers of Attorney (LPAs)
    • Trusts and inheritance tax planning
  • Manage a full caseload independently, from initial instruction through to completion
  • Draft and prepare wills, LPAs, trust deeds, and related documentation
  • Oversee estate administration, including:
    • Applications for Grants of Probate and Letters of Administration
    • Liaising with HMRC on inheritance tax matters
    • Distribution of estate assets
  • Deliver clear, empathetic and practical advice to clients, often in sensitive circumstances
  • Ensure compliance with SRA regulations and AML requirements
  • Maintain accurate and organised case management and file records
  • Engage in ongoing professional development and stay abreast of legal updates

 

Candidate Profile – Skills & Experience Required

We are seeking a personable and technically proficient legal professional:

  • Qualified Solicitor or Chartered Legal Executive (CILEx)
  • Minimum 5 years’ PQE in private client work within a UK law firm (essential)
  • Proven experience managing wills, probate, LPAs, trusts, and estate planning matters
  • Strong understanding of inheritance tax and estate administration processes
  • Proficiency with case management systems and Microsoft Office
  • Excellent communication skills, with the ability to explain complex matters clearly
  • Demonstrated ability to build trusted, long-term client relationships
  • High levels of accuracy, organisation, and attention to detail
  • A compassionate, professional approach with strong ethical standards

 

What’s on Offer

  • Competitive salary (£55,000 – £75,000 DOE)
  • Performance-related bonus scheme
  • Generous annual leave + bank holidays
  • Pension scheme
  • Ongoing training, CPD, and professional development support
  • Clear career progression opportunities within a growing team
  • Opportunity to work on a high-quality and varied caseload
  • Supportive, team-oriented working environment
  • Modern office

 

Career Progression

This role offers genuine opportunities for progression, with scope to develop into a senior position within the department. You will be supported in building your expertise, client base, and professional profile.

 

Apply Now – Confidential Discussion

To apply or discuss this opportunity in confidence, please contact:

David Hawthorne-Finch
Email: d.hawthorne-finch@h-fts.com

Take the next step in your private client career with a firm that values professional excellence, client care, and long-term development.

 

Confidentiality Notice:
All applications will be treated in the strictest confidence. Our client’s identity will be disclosed during the recruitment process.