Locum Private Client Solicitor – 3-Month Temporary Position (with Review)

Overall, Purpose of the Role

To provide support, for an initial period of three months, to the Head of Private Client by managing and progressing matters allocated by the Head of Department. The Locum Solicitor will not generate or take on new files independently but may meet clients where helpful, with all new matters formally allocated by the Head. The locum will not supervise staff and will not hold managerial responsibilities.

There will be a 1–2 week probationary period at the start of the engagement to ensure the locum has the appropriate level of experience to carry out the role effectively.

The arrangement will be subject to review prior to the end of the three-month period, with potential for extension depending on firm-wide needs.


Key Responsibilities

Case Management and Legal Work (Allocated only)

1. Manage and progress private client matters that are allocated by the Head of Private Client, including Wills, Probate, Trusts, LPAs, and Court of Protection work.

2. Draft both basic and complex Wills, including Trust Wills.

3. Handle estate administration from start to finish, including preparing Inheritance Tax (IHT) returns and Grant of Probate applications.

4. Prepare and register Lasting Powers of Attorney.

5. Draft and submit Court of Protection applications.

6. Manage trust creation, administration, and related advisory work.

7. Ensure compliance with SRA Code of Conduct and Lexcel standards.

8. Maintain high levels of client service and confidentiality.

Client Interaction

9. Meet with clients as required to take instructions or provide advice.

10. Any new enquiries or new matters will be opened and formally allocated by the Head of Department, who may then assign the file to the locum where appropriate.

Departmental support (No Supervisory Duties)

11. Assist the Head of Private Client with workload management by progressing allocated files efficiently and effectively.

12. Contribute to document drafting and department administration as directed.

13. Maintain accurate time recording for all chargeable and non-chargeable activities.

Matter Monitoring and Review Procedures

The Head of Private Client together with the Practice Manager will ensure appropriate monitoring of matters allocated to the Locum, which will normally include:

14. Weekly meetings with the Head of Department to review progress and identify any issues.

15. Administrative end-of-month analysis of matter balances to ensure no files remain dormant and that all matters are progressed in a timely manner in accordance with office procedures.

Required Knowledge and Skills

• Qualified Solicitor with minimum 5 years’ PQE in private client law.

• Strong technical knowledge of Wills, Trusts, Probate, LPAs, and Court of Protection.

• Thorough understanding of Lexcel standards and SRA Code of Conduct.

• Excellent interpersonal and client communication skills.

• Confident in using legal case management systems.

Performance Criteria

• File compliance and audit results.

• Positive internal and client feedback.

• Effective team development and strategic input.

Health & Safety / Wellbeing

Adheres to the firm’s health and safety policies and promotes wellbeing within the team.

Reporting Line

Reports to the Director/Head of Private Client and Practice Manager.