Private Client - Contentious Trusts and Probate Legal Director or Junior Partner - London
A respected mid sized London firm is seeking an experienced Legal Director or Junior Partner to join its top ranked Legal 500 Contentious Trust and Probate team.
This strategic hire will work closely with the Head of Contentious Private Client and take a leading role in the growth and delivery of a thriving practice that advises HNW and UHNW individuals, families, and private wealth advisers.
The role
You will have clear autonomy and responsibility for complex, high value disputes including:
* Probate disputes
* Will validity challenges
* Executor and trustee disputes
* Claims under the Inheritance Act
* Professional negligence claims involving will writers
* Optional involvement in contentious Court of Protection matters
You will help shape team direction, support the development of junior lawyers, and play an active role in client relationship management and BD initiatives.
The clients
The firms clients include HNW and UHNW individuals and families, often with estates and trusts of £2m+, including cross border structures, offshore assets, and multi jurisdiction elements. The team is known for a respectful, calm, solutions focused approach to sensitive disputes.
Why this role stands out
* A genuine step into senior leadership within a busy and well respected practice
* Strong internal support including two experienced paralegals and a collaborative partner group
* Realistic billing expectations that encourage quality over volume
* Hybrid working with three days per week in the London office
* A collegiate, people led culture with excellent retention and a steady, sustainable workflow
* Beautiful Scandinavian style offices and an active BD programme that drives high value work
This is an ideal opportunity for a senior contentious probate specialist seeking progression to partnership, or an existing junior partner seeking a more balanced, supportive and forward thinking environment.
The ideal candidate
* 7+ PQE plus in contentious trusts and probate
* Strong track record of running complex, high value disputes
* Experience building client relationships and supporting BD activity
* A calm, empathetic communicator with strong judgement
* STEP or ACTAPS accreditation helpful but not essential
About Lex Exec
Lex Exec is a specialist legal search and recruitment partner for private client and family law teams across London. We work exclusively with high calibre lawyers and leading firms to help build careers and teams that last.