Job Description
Dispute Resolution Solicitor – Property Litigation & Contested Probate | Leadership Opportunity
Salary: £60,000–£90,000+
Location: London
Are you an ambitious dispute resolution solicitor ready to take the helm of a growing contentious property and probate department?
Our client, a well-established London law firm with offices across Central and North London, is seeking an exceptional lawyer to drive forward their litigation practice. This is a rare opportunity to shape departmental strategy, build your own team, and establish yourself as a leading figure in property and probate disputes.
About the Opportunity
Our client is looking for a high-calibre solicitor who can combine technical excellence with commercial acumen and business development capability.
This isn't just another fee-earning role – it's a genuine leadership position where you'll have the autonomy to develop the practice area, attract new clients, and create a thriving disputes department. The firm values quality over quantity and is prepared to invest in the right individual who can demonstrate both expertise and entrepreneurial drive.
The Role: What You'll Be Doing
You will take ownership of a varied and sophisticated caseload of contentious matters, including:
* Property litigation: landlord and tenant disputes, boundary disputes, easements and rights of way, real estate litigation, possession proceedings, and lease disputes
* Contested probate: inheritance disputes, challenges to wills (lack of capacity, undue influence, fraud), claims under the Inheritance (Provision for Family and Dependants) Act 1975
* Trust and estate litigation: breach of trust claims, removal of trustees, trust construction disputes
* Related contentious matters: proprietary estoppel claims, TOLATA disputes, and professional negligence claims arising from property or probate matters
Beyond casework, you will be expected to:
* Lead and develop the dispute resolution department's strategic direction
* Build and maintain strong client relationships with a focus on business development
* Supervise and mentor junior team members as the department grows
* Contribute to the firm's profile through networking, thought leadership, and client seminars
The Ideal Candidate: What We're Looking For
Essential Requirements:
* Qualified Solicitor of England and Wales with 5+ years' PQE (though exceptional candidates at different levels will be considered)
* Demonstrable expertise in property litigation and/or contested probate with a proven track record of successful case outcomes
* Excellent academic credentials – strong degree classification and professional qualifications
* Strong career trajectory showing progression and increasing responsibility
* Proven ability to manage complex, high-value, and reputationally sensitive disputes with strategic judgement
* Excellent client care skills with demonstrable experience in building and maintaining client relationships
* Business development capability with a track record of generating new work and expanding client base
Highly Desirable:
* Existing client following and professional network that can be transitioned
* Experience in high-net-worth or complex commercial disputes
* Advocacy experience in County Court and High Court proceedings
* Track record of winning new clients and developing profitable fee-earning relationships
What's On Offer: Comprehensive Benefits Package
* Competitive salary: £60,000–£90,000+ depending on experience and client following (our client pays well for exceptional talent)
* Genuine leadership opportunity to head up and build the dispute resolution department
* Autonomy and strategic input – shape the department's direction and growth
* Flexible working arrangements – location flexibility available; the firm prioritises candidate quality over rigid location requirements
* Supportive professional environment within an established and respected London practice
* High-quality work with sophisticated clients on complex, intellectually stimulating matters
* Career progression with clear pathway to partnership for the right candidate
* Professional development support including training, conferences, and networking opportunities
* Competitive holiday entitlement and firm pension scheme
About Our Client
Our client is an authorised and regulated London law firm with a strong reputation for delivering exceptional legal services across multiple practice areas. With offices across London the firm combines the personal service of a boutique practice with the resources and sophistication expected of a leading London firm. They pride themselves on their commitment to excellence, integrity, and building long-term client relationships.
Next Steps: How to Apply
If you have the credentials, expertise, and ambition to lead this practice area and build a thriving dispute resolution department, we want to hear from you.
For a strictly confidential discussion about this exceptional opportunity, please contact:
Mara Watson
Legal Recruitment Consultant
Hawthorne-Finch Talent Solutions Ltd
Email: m.-
Phone:
Please submit your CV outlining your relevant experience, current salary, notice period, and any existing client following you would be able to bring to the role.
All applications will be treated in the strictest confidence. We welcome applications from solicitors at all stages of their career who meet the essential criteria outlined above.
Hawthorne-Finch Talent Solutions Ltd is committed to protecting your privacy. To view our privacy policy, please visit h- All information shared with us will be treated confidentially and will only be disclosed to our client with your express consent.