Solicitor

Cullimore Dutton Solicitors Limited; Chester; On-site; GBP 40,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading legal firm in Chester is seeking a Wills Solicitor with 2+ years PQE to advise clients on wills and estate planning. You will manage a diverse caseload, draft legal documents, and contribute to business development initiatives. Ideal candidates will demonstrate strong technical skills, excellent client care, and a commitment to the firm's values of respect, integrity, excellence, collaboration, and simplicity.

Qualifications

• At least 2 years PQE in wills, trusts, and probate.
• Proven experience in estate planning and inheritance tax.
• Ability to explain complex issues clearly.

Responsibilities

• Advise clients on wills and probate matters.
• Manage a varied caseload efficiently.
• Draft wills and trust documents.
• Participate in business development activities.

Skills

Strong technical knowledge of private client law

Excellent drafting, advisory, and negotiation skills

Strong client care skills

Good business acumen

Team player

Networking abilities

Commitment to continuous professional development

Education

Qualified Solicitor

Job description

Overview

Job Specification: Wills Solicitor (2+ years PQE)

Department: Wills, Trusts & Probate

Reports to: Head of Wills & Probate

Location: Chester or Knustford (with potential for cross-office collaboration)

Contract: Full-time, permanent

Role purpose

To provide high-quality legal advice and services in wills, trusts, probate, and estate planning. The role requires technical expertise, excellent client care, and a proactive approach to business development in line with Cullimore Dutton’s values: respect, integrity, excellence, collaboration, and simplicity.

Key Responsibilities

• Advise clients on wills, estate planning, inheritance tax, and probate matters.
• Manage a varied caseload efficiently, ensuring timely progression of files and compliance with all regulatory requirements.
• Draft wills, LPAs, trusts, and related documents with precision and attention to detail.
• Deliver excellent client care, maintaining strong relationships and exceeding client expectations.
• Support the Head of Department with complex cases and departmental initiatives.
• Record and bill time accurately, achieving personal financial targets and supporting the team’s contribution to firm-wide income objectives.
• Identify and act upon cross-referral opportunities across Cullimore Dutton’s legal and financial services teams.
• Participate in business development activities, including networking, client seminars, and community engagement.
• Actively contribute to the continuous improvement of systems, processes, and client experience.

Key Performance Indicators

• Achievement of income and billing targets, with lock-up actively managed.
• High levels of positive client feedback.
• Compliance with regulatory responsibilities and internal risk procedures.
• Evidence of cross-referrals and contribution to business growth.
• Consistently accurate and timely file management.

Skills and Experience

• Qualified Solicitor with at least 2 years PQE in wills, trusts, and probate.
• Strong technical knowledge of private client law, including inheritance tax and estate planning.
• Excellent drafting, advisory, and negotiation skills.
• Strong client care skills, with the ability to explain complex issues clearly and simply.
• Good business acumen and commitment to meeting financial and operational targets.
• Team player with a collaborative mindset and ability to support colleagues.
• Confident in networking and building relationships to generate new business.
• Commitment to continuous professional development and to living the firm’s values.

Values and Behaviours

• Demonstrates respect, integrity, excellence, collaboration, and simplicity in all interactions.
• Proactively supports colleagues and contributes to a high-performing team culture.
• Takes ownership of personal development and risk management responsibilities.
• Acts as an ambassador for Cullimore Dutton in the community.