Contentious Probate Solicitor

Harrison-Drury is a market leading Firm of solicitors with offices in Lancashire, Cumbria, and Staffordshire. We're delighted to be named one of the UK's Best Companies to work for, for the third-year running, placing at number 40 in the Top 100 Best Mid-Sized Companies to work for list. We also ranked 10th in the Best Companies to work for in the Law sector, achievements that reflect our commitment to creating a supportive, people-focused workplace.

Due to continued growth within our highly regarded Private Client team, we are looking to recruit a Contentious Probate Solicitor to work closely with our established team, ideally across our Preston and Clitheroe offices.

We are ideally seeking a solicitor with 2-7 years' PQE, although we welcome applications from candidates with different levels of experience who can demonstrate the relevant technical expertise and ambition to succeed within a growing team.

This is an excellent opportunity to join a collaborative and highly regarded department that advises on a broad range of contentious probate and inheritance disputes, while benefiting from genuine career progression opportunities and a supportive working environment.

The Role

You will manage a varied caseload of contentious probate matters, advising clients on disputes relating to wills, trusts, estates and inheritance claims. Working alongside experienced Private Client specialists, you will play an important role in delivering exceptional client service whilst helping to further develop the team's presence across the region.

The successful candidate will be able to demonstrate excellent communication skills, strong technical ability and a commercial approach, balanced with the empathy and understanding required when supporting clients through often sensitive and challenging circumstances.

Typical Duties Will Include:

• Managing a varied caseload of contentious probate matters.

• Advising clients in relation to disputes involving wills, trusts and estates.

• Handling claims under the Inheritance (Provision for Family and Dependants) Act 1975.

• Building and maintaining strong relationships with clients, referrers and professional contacts.

• Delivering an exceptional level of client service.

• Managing matters efficiently and ensuring clients are regularly updated on progress and costs.

• Participating in networking, marketing and business development initiatives.

• Working collaboratively with colleagues across the wider Private Client team.

• Contributing to the ongoing growth and success of the department.

Skills and Experience:

• Qualified Solicitor with a minimum of 2 years' PQE.

• Experience managing contentious probate and inheritance disputes.

• Experience of 1975 Act claims would be advantageous.

• Excellent client-facing and relationship-building abilities.

• Strong organisational skills and attention to detail.

• Commercial awareness and a proactive approach to client service.

• Ability to manage a busy caseload effectively.

• Empathy, compassion and professionalism.

• Ambition to develop your career within a growing team.

• Strong IT and case management skills.

• Ability to work both independently and collaboratively.

Benefits

At Harrison Drury, we believe in rewarding our people and supporting their wellbeing. Benefits include:

• Hybrid working policy

• Commitment to a maximum of 1,200 chargeable hours per annum

• Employee bonus scheme and annual pay review

• Medicash health benefits cash plan and Employee Assistance Programme (EAP)

• Holiday entitlement increases with length of service

• Paid time off for voluntary work (2 days per year)

• Free conveyancing for the purchase/sale of your primary residence

• Free individual or mirror Wills

• Employee referral scheme

• Biannual promotion and salary uplift application process

• Regular social events, including our annual Christmas party and staff recognition awards

Why Join Us?

• Be part of an award-winning, people-focused firm.

• Work alongside recognised experts in the field.

• Enjoy a supportive culture that invests in staff development and wellbeing.

• Flexible working arrangements to suit your lifestyle.

• Opportunity to make a real impact in a growing team.