Location: Southampton and the Isle of Wight
Salary: Competitive, depending on experience
Roach Pittis Solicitors was founded in 1873 and is a traditional high street practice, predominantly covering property, private client work and litigation. We embrace remote, hybrid and flexible working, servicing both private individuals and corporate entities. We are looking to recruit professionals with a good work ethic and a team mentality. We expect to support our staff with good access to professional development and time to undertake the same.
Litigation Department Background
We have a growing litigation department that deals with cases all over the country, although the majority of our clientele are based locally. While we provide a general litigation practice, our main areas of work relate to property litigation and contentious probate, dealing with matters both before the County Court, the High Court and the various Land Tribunals.
Ideally, we are seeking a candidate with some experience in both property litigation and contested probate. We are also happy to consider separate hires for candidates specialising in either area.
Your Role in the Team
• Report directly to Head of Department.
• Proactive approach to litigation matters and case management.
• Manage all aspects of litigation work from initial instruction through to resolution.
• Provide a high standard of client care with a professional, sensitive and pragmatic approach to clients’ needs.
• Where appropriate, provide guidance and support to other members of the team.
• Manage a varied caseload effectively and independently.
• Meet with clients, take instructions and progress matters efficiently.
• Deal with correspondence and communications with clients, opponents and third parties.
• Maintain accurate time recording and comply with the firm’s costing procedure.
• Implement and action any recommendations following file reviews promptly.
• Represent clients confidently in Court proceedings, mediations and settlement negotiations.
• Ensure compliance with the firm’s file management and regulatory requirements.
• Preparing pre-action correspondence, letters of claim, witness statements and court documentation.
• Supporting negotiation and alternative dispute resolution including mediation where appropriate including drafting Settlement Agreements.
• Liaising with counsel, surveyors, experts, and other professional advisers and third parties including the court.


Key Tasks: -
Contested Probate
• Advising on Inheritance 1975 Act Claims.
• Advising on Will Disputes.
• Advising on executor, beneficiary and trustee disputes.
• Advising on proprietary estoppel claims and constructive trust claims.
• Handling probate disputes involving allegations of forgery, testamentary capacity and undue influence
• Dealing with Court of Protection disputes.
• Handling claims relating to lifetime gifts and international estate issues.
• Acting for Executors in a neutral capacity.
• Dealing with elderly claims.
• Managing cases involving allegations of fraud.
• Advising on disputes concerning the validity and construction of trust documents.


Property Litigation
• Advising on co-ownership and property ownership disputes, including matters involving trusts.
• Dealing with commercial property disputes, including dilapidations, rent arrears, and lease forfeiture and lease renewals.
• Handling boundary disputes, including disagreements between neighbouring landowners regarding property boundaries.
• Advising on residential landlord and tenant disputes, including rent arrears, breaches of lease, lack of repair and possession proceedings.
• Advising on rights of way and easements, including access rights and land us issues.
• Managing nuisance and trespass claims where the use of one property interferes with another.


Key Skills
• A qualified Solicitor or Legal Executive/Barrister with rights of conduct
• At least 3 years PQE
• Must have a clean, valid Practising Certificate at the time of applying
• Proactive and dependable team member who adapts well to new challenges.
• Strong client care skills with the ability to deal with sensitive matters in a calm and professional manner.
• Excellent communication and networking skills, with the ability to build relationships and contribute to business development.
• Strong analytical and organisational abilities with sound professional judgement.
• Ability to work independently and take initiative.
• Proficient in IT skills, including Microsoft Office and document management systems.
• Experience in contentious probate and probate litigation.
• Own advocacy experience advantageous.
• The recruitment process will comply with GDPR and all relevant regulatory requirements. Background checks, including CRB/DBS checks, will be undertaken to confirm eligibility to work in the UK and suitability for the role.
If you would like to join a professional and supportive team and contribute to the continued success of the firm, Roach Pittis would like to hear from you.
Please Note: We encourage candidates to speak to us direct/apply direct for the opportunities we have available.