Contentious Trust and Probate - Disputes Associate

Job description

The firm

We are a dynamic, multifaceted law firm that provides a wide range of legal services to a creative and entrepreneurial client base. We partner with the big and the small, from cutting edge startups to global corporations, early-stage entrepreneurs to established industry leaders, and household names to private individuals and their family offices. We are renowned for our sector specialisms which we combine with expertise across all the traditional practice areas to provide our clients with tailored solutions that truly add value.

We offer a collegiate, vibrant and supportive environment, a clear path for career progression and a strong platform from which to learn and grow. We look for high performing, committed and innovative people who aren't afraid to push themselves to be the best they can be. We take an active role in helping our people be at the top of their game. We believe our people make us stand out and we empower them to meet their ambitions. We invest time in developing their skills and knowledge and run a number of development and training programmes throughout the year, as well as encouraging and supporting personal involvement in other areas of expertise.

The Private Client & Tax Group

We are looking for a Disputes Associate to join our Contentious Trusts and Probate practice. The team forms part of the firm's wider Private Client & Tax group and provides a comprehensive service to a varied and interesting client base.

Our clients are wealthy individuals, family offices, trustees, financial institutions and established businesses and start-ups. Many are connected to the technology, finance, entertainment, media and sports sectors. They are based both in the UK and internationally and we have a particular strength in clients connected with Middle East and the US.

The role

We are seeking a bright and ambitious Disputes Associate (4-5 years' PQE) to join our growing Contentious Trusts and Probate team. This is an exciting opportunity to work with leading experts in the field and work on complex, high-value and often cross-border disputes for an exceptional client base, including ultra-high-net-worth individuals, trustees, fiduciaries and family members.

The successful candidate will be involved in all aspects of contentious private client work, from pre-action advice and mediation through to litigation in the High Court.

Key Responsibilities

- Acting on a broad range of disputes including:

- Challenges to the validity of wills

- Claims under the Inheritance (Provision for Family and Dependants) Act 1975

- Breach of trust and fiduciary duty claims

- Removal and replacement of executors and trustees

- Complex cross-border succession disputes and offshore trust litigation

- Managing your own caseload under supervision and assisting partners on large, high-profile cases

- Drafting clear and persuasive pleadings, witness statements and correspondence

- Liaising directly with clients and intermediaries, maintaining the highest standards of client care and discretion

- Preparing for and attending mediations and court hearings

- Supporting the team's business development activities, including attending events and contributing to thought leadership

Candidate profile

- 4-5 years' PQE with experience in contentious trusts and probate work gained at a respected firm

- A sound understanding of the legal and practical issues in high-value trust and estate disputes

- Excellent technical ability, drafting skills and attention to detail

- Strong interpersonal skills with the ability to develop and maintain relationships with a sophisticated client base

- Commercial awareness and an interest in the wider private wealth sector

- STEP or ACTAPS qualification or progress towards it is desirable but not essential