The Opportunity

This role offers meaningful exposure to a broad range of private client work within an established Bristol firm. The successful candidate will work closely with the supervising solicitor and will become involved in matters from initial instruction through to completion.

You will have direct exposure to clients, financial institutions, HM Courts & Tribunals Service, HM Revenue & Customs, the Probate Registry and other professional advisers, gaining valuable practical experience in both legal and client-facing work.

You will gain exposure to:

• Assisting with the preparation of Wills and estate planning documents
• Supporting the administration of estates from initial instruction through to final distribution
• Preparing Probate and Letters of Administration applications
• Assisting with the preparation and registration of Lasting Powers of Attorney
• Drafting correspondence and legal documents
• Liaising with clients, beneficiaries, executors, financial institutions and third parties
• Preparing inheritance tax documentation and estate accounts under supervision
• Managing files and ensuring matters progress efficiently
• Undertaking legal and factual research where required
• Supporting the supervising solicitor with the day-to-day management of the department

Key Responsibilities

The successful candidate will assist with the day-to-day management and progression of private client files, including:

• Opening, maintaining and progressing files in accordance with SRA requirements, office procedures and file management protocols
• Drafting client correspondence and assisting with legal documentation
• Preparing draft Wills, Lasting Powers of Attorney and associated documentation
• Assisting with Probate applications and estate administration
• Preparing inheritance tax forms and supporting estate accounts under supervision
• Liaising with clients, executors, beneficiaries, banks, investment companies, HMRC and the Probate Registry
• Maintaining accurate attendance notes, file notes and records
• Managing key dates and ensuring matters progress efficiently
• Obtaining and organising financial information and supporting documentation
• Undertaking legal research where required
• Providing administrative and legal support to the supervising solicitor
• Delivering excellent client care throughout every stage of the matter

What We Are Looking For

We are looking for someone who is genuinely committed to developing a career in Private Client law and who is keen to gain practical experience within a busy and varied department.

The successful candidate should be compassionate, organised, professional and proactive, with excellent communication skills and a genuine interest in helping clients through significant life events.

This role will suit someone who enjoys building client relationships, takes pride in attention to detail and wishes to develop into a future Private Client solicitor.

Essential Skills / Requirements

• Strong written and verbal communication skills
• Excellent organisational skills and attention to detail
• A professional, empathetic and client-focused approach
• Excellent time management and the ability to manage multiple matters simultaneously
• Strong drafting skills
• Good analytical ability and logical thinking
• A genuine interest in developing a long-term career in Private Client law
• Ability to work proactively whilst recognising when supervision is required
• Good IT skills, including Microsoft Word, Outlook and Excel
• Confidence using or learning case management systems, ideally LEAP
• A willingness to learn, develop and take responsibility

Qualifications / Academic Background

Applicants should ideally have:

• A qualifying LLB Law degree or Law Conversion qualification; and
• Either:
  • Completed the LPC or SQE;
  • Be currently undertaking the LPC or SQE;
  • Be due to complete the LPC or SQE in the near future.

We would also welcome applications from strong candidates who can otherwise demonstrate a genuine commitment to a career in Private Client law and the ability to thrive in a busy legal practice.

Preferred (but not essential)

• Previous experience as a Private Client Paralegal or Legal Assistant
• Experience assisting with Wills, Probate or LPAs
• Knowledge of the Probate process and estate administration
• Experience liaising with HMRC, the Probate Registry or financial institutions
• Experience gained within an English law firm or another common law jurisdiction
• A valid UK driving licence

Why Join Us?

• Join a long-established and respected Bristol firm with an excellent local reputation
• Gain hands-on experience within a busy Private Client department
• Work closely with an experienced solicitor on a varied caseload
• Develop practical expertise in Wills, Probate and LPAs
• Build long-term client relationships and make a meaningful difference to clients and their families
• Benefit from genuine progression opportunities, including potential consideration for a Training Contract or alternative route to qualification

Progression

We are committed to developing talent from within the firm. For the right candidate, this role offers genuine opportunities for career progression within the Private Client department and, where appropriate, consideration for a Training Contract or other route to qualification following a successful period in post, subject to business need, performance and suitability.

How to Apply

If you are ready to take the next step in your legal career and would like to join an established Bristol firm with a growing Private Client department, we would be delighted to hear from you.

Please send your CV and covering letter to the Practice Manager, Mr Ben Fews, at Ben.Fews@danielwoodman.co.uk, and to our supervising Private Client Solicitor at [Charles.Dibley@danielwoodman.co.uk].