Senior Associate – Contentious Trusts & Estates – Exeter

Overview

In this role you will handle high-value contentious private wealth disputes within a leading South West team. You will advise a diverse client base, from high-net-worth individuals to trustees, on complex issues such as wills, inheritance disputes, and executor disputes. The position offers exposure to top-quality work, meaningful client interaction, and opportunity to contribute to the growth of a market-leading practice. You will work in a collaborative, development‑focused culture with flexible working options and strong progression potential.

Pay / Benefits

• Flexible and hybrid working options
• Competitive salary
• Comprehensive benefits package
• Onsite parking
• Career progression opportunities
• Strong investment in professional development

Responsibilities

• Manage complex, high-value contentious private wealth matters
• Handle will validity, inheritance disputes, and Inheritance Act claims
• Lead executor and trustee dispute cases
• Oversee trust-related dispute resolutions and related professional negligence claims
• Maintain strong client relationships and provide strategic legal advice
• Support growth of the practice through networking and development initiatives
• Collaborate with specialists to deliver high-quality outcomes for clients

Key requirements

• 7+ years’ PQE in Contentious Trusts & Estates or Private Wealth disputes
• Strong technical expertise in relevant areas
• Proven ability to build and maintain client relationships
• Commercial mindset with excellent communication and interpersonal skills
• Experience of networking and business development to grow the practice
• Organised, resilient; able to manage competing priorities

• client relationship building
• clear communication
• interpersonal skills
• Contentious Trusts & Estates
• private wealth disputes
• professional negligence claims relating to estate/trust administration

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