Private Client Partner – Wills, Trusts & Probate

About the role

We are seeking a Private Client Partner to lead and expand our Wills, Trusts & Probate practice in Dorchester and the surrounding South West region. The successful candidate will join a top‑ranked Legal 500 team, working with high‑net‑worth individuals, family businesses, farming families and landed estates.

Key responsibilities

• Develop and grow the Wills, Trusts & Probate offering across Dorset.
• Manage a diverse caseload including complex wills, estate administration, tax and succession planning, trusts and lasting powers of attorney.
• Build and maintain relationships with referrers, professional advisers and local networks.
• Drive business development and contribute to the firm’s strategic growth.
• Mentor and support junior lawyers as the team expands.
• Collaborate with related practice areas such as residential property, commercial, construction and family law.

Required profile

• Qualified solicitor with experience at Partner or Senior Associate level in Private Client work.
• Proven ability to handle complex estates, tax planning and trust matters.
• Strong client‑relationship management skills, particularly with high‑value clients and professional referrers.
• Commercially minded with a track record of successful business development.
• Collaborative and supportive attitude, eager to contribute to a growing team culture.
• STEP qualification or working towards it (preferred but not essential).

Required skills

• Complex estate administration.
• Tax planning and succession strategies.
• Trust structuring and management.
• Legal drafting of wills and powers of attorney.

What we offer

• Opportunity to build and lead a growing Private Client department.
• Strong regional presence with established client networks.
• Supportive, collaborative environment with autonomy and influence.
• Hybrid working model and flexible arrangements.
• Clear progression and growth potential.