Job Description Private Client Solicitor Salary: £45,000–£60,000 Location: Chelmsford Area Are you an ambitious Private Client Solicitor looking to elevate your career with a prestigious Top UK law firm that truly invests in its people? This is your opportunity to work on high-value, complex estate administration and succession planning matters whilst enjoying exceptional benefits, genuine work-life balance, and a clear path to progression. About Our Client Our client is a well-established Top UK law firm with an extensive network legal professionals across the UK throughout the region. Our client is successfully evolved from a traditional family practice into a modern, forward-thinking legal service provider whilst maintaining their strong community values and commitment to exceptional client care. They serve an impressive and diverse client base including high-net-worth individuals, businesses, professional partnerships, charities, schools, multi-academy trusts, and national corporations. Their vision is clear: to be the firm of choice for exceptional service, quality of life, and responsible business practices. The Opportunity This is an exciting career-defining role for a driven Private Client Solicitor ready to take ownership of a high-quality caseload within a supportive, collaborative environment. You'll work on complex and intellectually stimulating matters including estate administration, succession planning, trusts, tax planning, and Wills, whilst receiving appropriate supervision and mentorship from experienced partners. The firm is experiencing significant growth in their Private Client department and is committed to investing in talented solicitors who want to develop their expertise and progress their careers. Key Responsibilities Client Management & Legal Excellence: • Provide high-quality, proactive legal advice to private clients on estate administration, succession planning, trusts, and tax matters • Manage a varied and complex caseload with appropriate supervision and support • Build and maintain strong client relationships, delivering exceptional service at every touchpoint • Ensure all work is completed to the highest professional standards and within agreed timeframes Business Development & Team Contribution: • Achieve personal fee targets and support team members in reaching theirs • Contribute to business development initiatives and help grow the Private Client department • Enhance the firm's reputation through professional and community activities • Utilise technology effectively to deliver cost-efficient, innovative legal services Essential Requirements Qualifications & Experience: • Qualified Solicitor in England and Wales with 3 years PQE specifically in Private Client law • Law degree and LPC completion with two-year training contract (or GDL conversion, LPC, and training contract) • Alternatively, relevant CILEX qualification with equivalent experience • Demonstrated success in handling complex private client cases with a proven track record Technical Skills: • Strong technical knowledge of estate administration, succession planning, trusts, and tax planning • Excellent understanding of Inheritance Tax, Capital Gains Tax, and relevant private client legislation • Proficiency with case management systems and legal technology platforms • Strong drafting skills for Wills, trusts, Lasting Powers of Attorney, and estate documentation Personal Attributes: • Exceptional client care skills with ability to explain complex legal matters clearly • Strong organisational and time management abilities • Commercial awareness and business development mindset • Team player with collaborative approach and willingness to support colleagues Comprehensive Benefits Package Financial Rewards: • Competitive salary of £45,000–£60,000 (dependent on experience) • Discretionary bonus payments based on performance • Generous pension scheme with employer contributions Work-Life Balance: • Hybrid working arrangements with flexible office/home split • Generous annual leave entitlement (25 days plus bank holidays) • Birthday day off – because your special day matters • Enhanced family-friendly policies including maternity, paternity, and adoption leave Health & Wellbeing: • Permanent health insurance for peace of mind • Comprehensive wellness programmes including gym membership discounts • Mental health support with access to confidential counselling services • Employee Assistance Programme for you and your family Professional Development: • Extensive training and development programmes tailored to your career goals • Clear progression pathway to Senior Associate and beyond • CPD support with funded courses, seminars, and qualifications • Mentorship opportunities with experienced partners and senior solicitors Culture & Environment: • Inclusive, collaborative culture where your voice is heard and valued • Modern, well-equipped offices in the Chelmsford area • Social events and team-building activities throughout the year • Commitment to responsible business practices and community engagement Location & Working Arrangements Office Location: Chelmsford Area with excellent transport links and nearby amenities Working Pattern: Full-time, permanent position with hybrid working flexibility – typically 3 days in the office, 2 days from home (subject to business needs and agreement) Career Progression This role offers genuine progression opportunities within a growing department. The firm has a strong track record of promoting from within and supporting solicitors to develop into senior associate and partner positions. You'll receive regular performance reviews, personalised development plans, and clear pathways for advancement. Why This Opportunity Stands Out Top 200 UK firm with excellent reputation and stability High-quality, complex work that will challenge and develop your expertise Outstanding benefits package including health insurance and wellness support Genuine work-life balance with hybrid working and generous leave Clear career progression with investment in your professional development Supportive, collaborative culture where people genuinely enjoy working together Modern, forward-thinking approach whilst maintaining traditional values of client care Ready to Take the Next Step? If you're an ambitious Private Client Solicitor with 3 years PQE looking for a role that offers exceptional work, outstanding benefits, and genuine career progression, we'd love to hear from you. For a confidential discussion about this opportunity, please contact: Mara Watson Hawthorne-Finch Talent Solutions Email: m.watson@h-fts.com Website: https://h-fts.com/ Please include your current CV outlining your interest in the role. All applications will be treated in the strictest confidence. Hawthorne-Finch Talent Solutions is committed to ethical recruitment practices and will only submit your details to our client with your express written consent.