Private Client Solicitor

Private Client Solicitor (5 PQE)

Location: Surrey (Cobham Area)

Salary: c.DOE/PQE

Are you a technically strong empathetic Private Client Solicitor or Chartered Legal Executive seeking a high-calibre caseload within an affluent Surrey practice Our client is a highly regarded long-established law firm in Cobham with an enviable local reputation. Experiencing continued growth across their private client division they are seeking an experienced Solicitor (5 PQE) to take full ownership of a broad high-value caseload and foster long-term relationships with an established loyal client base.

The Opportunity

In this key fee-earning role you will deliver comprehensive practical legal advice across the full spectrum of private client practice. Handling instructions independently from initial consultation through to completion you will manage complex wills probate trusts lasting powers of attorney (LPAs) and inheritance tax (IHT) planning for high-net-worth individuals and local families. This position offers direct client contact high operational autonomy and clear long-term scope to progress into a senior leadership position within the department.

Key Responsibilities & Requirements

• Qualifications & Experience: Qualified Solicitor (England & Wales) or Fellow of CILEx with a minimum of 5 years post-qualification experience (PQE) in private client law within a reputable UK practice. STEP qualification or membership is desirable but not essential.

• Technical Mastery: Proven track record managing complex estate planning drafting wills and trust deeds executing probate and estate administration applying for Grants of Representation and liaising with HMRC on IHT and capital gains matters.

• Client Care & Interpersonal Skills: Exceptional communication skills with a compassionate client-focused approach able to deliver clear sensitive guidance during complex family and estate discussions.

• Regulatory & Compliance: In-depth knowledge of SRA guidelines AML requirements and modern case management software to ensure accurate file administration.

• Practice Development: Proactive approach to business development client retention and expanding the firms presence across Cobham and the wider Surrey market.

Package & Working Structure

• Competitive Remuneration: base salary per annum (commensurate with PQE and technical background) plus a performance-related bonus scheme.

• Working Arrangements: Flexible/agile working options supported alongside a modern well-located office in Cobham.

• Leave & Benefits: Generous annual leave entitlement plus bank holidays workplace pension scheme and full CPD/professional development funding.

• Career Trajectory: Structured transparent path for career advancement into Senior Associate and Partner-track roles within an expanding team.

• Culture: Collaborative supportive working environment backed by experienced secretarial and administrative support.

How to Apply

To discuss this position in complete confidence or request further details please contact David Hawthorne-Finch directly:

• Email:

Hawthorne-Finch Talent Solutions is acting as an employment agency for this vacancy. All applications and enquiries are treated with the strictest confidence and candidate details are never shared without prior express consent.