Job Title: Private Client Solicitor – Head of Department
Department: Wills & Probate
Location: City of London/ Birmingham
Salary: Up to £85,000 per annum, depending on experience
Main Responsibilities of the Role:
* Responsible for all aspects of Wills & Probate work
* Assisting with casework, including dealing with a range of Wills, Probate, and Lasting Powers of Attorney cases, including: estate administration; applying for and obtaining the grant of probate; setting up trusts; advising on inheritance tax; court of protection matters; contesting a will; settling any tax liabilities and affairs
* Reporting directly to and collaborating with the Board to ensure performance targets are met
* Supervising a team of solicitors, trainee solicitors, and paralegals undertaking private client work
* Ability to manage appropriate caseload types and complexities
* Attending clients, taking instructions, and preparing cases
* Handling correspondence
* Maintaining accurate time costing procedures
* Undertaking probation reviews for new staff and conducting monthly file reviews, ensuring that follow-up actions are dealt with promptly
* Ensuring compliance with file management
Key Skills Required:
* Previous experience managing a team and working to key performance indicators (chargeables, billing, etc.)
* Extensive knowledge and experience of Wills & Probate work, with the ability to handle privately funded cases
* 5+ Years PQE (Post Qualification Experience)
* Must have a clean, valid Practicing Certificate at the time of applying
* Professional with a proactive approach; excellent client care skills and the ability to handle client matters sensitively and resolve complex issues
* Excellent networking and communication skills, with the ability to successfully market the firm and generate new business
* Strong analytical and organisational skills
* Ability to use initiative and sound judgment
* Advocacy experience is an advantage
* Strong IT skills, particularly familiarity with Microsoft Office applications and document management systems