Job Description Contentious Trust & Probate Solicitor Location : Manchester Salary : £45,000 - £60,000 Working Pattern : Full-time, Permanent Experience required : 2 years PQE in Contentious Probate About the Role An exciting opportunity has arisen for a motivated and talented Contentious Trust & Probate Solicitor to join a leading full-service law firm with a rich history of providing exceptional legal services to clients across the UK. As a vital member of an ambitious team, you will specialise in managing disputes related to the administration and distribution of deceased estates. Your work will include advising clients on wills, probate, and Inheritance Act claims, frequently representing executors, beneficiaries, and trustees in court. This is a real opportunity to shape and grow a high-performing department within a well-established firm with a strong regional presence. Your key responsibilities will include: Case Management: Handling a diverse caseload of contentious probate matters Providing expert advice and legal representation in court Managing multiple cases efficiently while meeting deadlines and court requirements Leading negotiations and litigation efforts from pre-action protocols through to court proceedings Client Advisory: Offering clear, insightful guidance on complex issues involving wills, probate, and Inheritance Act claims Advising clients on disputes related to estate administration and distribution Communicating with clarity and confidence to advise clients effectively Building strong relationships with a genuine understanding of client needs Dispute Resolution: Collaborating closely with executors, beneficiaries, trustees, and other parties involved in estate disputes Negotiating settlements and minimising unnecessary litigation Leading mediation efforts and alternative dispute resolution Representing clients in court proceedings when required Legal Documentation: Drafting and preparing essential legal documents such as correspondence, witness statements, and court pleadings Preparing case bundles and court applications Ensuring accuracy and compliance in all documentation Managing disclosure and evidence gathering Technical Expertise: Leveraging strong knowledge of wills, trusts, probate, and estate administration Applying litigation experience to resolve disputes effectively Keeping up to date with changes in legislation and case law Working collaboratively within a supportive legal team What We're Looking For Essential Requirements: Experience: Qualified Solicitor (England & Wales) with 2 years PQE in Contentious Probate Proven experience handling contentious trust and probate matters Strong litigation experience and court representation Track record of successful case outcomes Strong knowledge of wills, trusts, probate, and estate administration Proven success in negotiating settlements and minimising unnecessary litigation Exceptional communication and client service abilities Strong relationship-building skills with genuine understanding of client needs Ability to manage multiple cases efficiently while meeting deadlines Excellent drafting and legal writing skills Ambition to help build and expand a high-performing team Desirable: Experience with Inheritance Act claims Mediation or ADR training Interest in business development and team growth STEP qualification or working towards it Personal Attributes: Motivated and ambitious Collaborative team player Strong attention to detail Resilient and able to handle complex disputes Professional and trustworthy Client-focused approach Benefits Package Financial Rewards: Salary: £45,000 - £60,000 (dependent on experience) Competitive bonus scheme Comprehensive benefits package Professional Development: Real opportunity to shape and grow a high-performing department Support for professional development and qualifications Opportunity to build and expand an ambitious team Work on complex and high-value disputes Clear career progression pathway Working Environment: Flexible hybrid working across Manchester, Sale, Chester, and home Supportive leadership Genuinely collaborative culture Well-established, full-service law firm with strong regional presence Modern office facilities About Our Client Our client is a leading full-service law firm with a rich history of providing exceptional legal services to clients across the UK. As they continue to expand and grow, they are seeking motivated and talented solicitors to support their ambitious team in Contentious Probate. The firm is known for its supportive leadership, genuinely collaborative culture, and commitment to employee development. With a strong regional presence and excellent reputation, they offer a platform for talented solicitors to build their careers and contribute to the growth of a high-performing department. Location & Working Arrangements Based: Manchester Working Pattern: Full-time, Permanent Hybrid Working: Flexible hybrid working across Manchester, Sale, Chester, and home Ready to Take the Next Step? If you're an ambitious Contentious Probate Solicitor looking to shape and grow a high-performing department at a well-established firm with genuine career development opportunities, we want to hear from you. For a confidential discussion about this exciting opportunity, please contact: Lee Hawthorne-Finch Email: lee.hawthorne-finch@h-fts.com Phone: 0333 996 2882 All applications will be treated in the strictest confidence.