🚀 Solicitor

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.