NQ Private Client Solicitor (0-1 PQE)

NQ Private Client Solicitor (0-1 PQE) Salary: £38,000-£48,000 Location: Chelmsford area Supportive team, structured development and high-quality work

If you're newly qualified and want to build a long-term career in Private Client, this is a brilliant opportunity to join our client's established team in the Chelmsford area. You'll work with a varied caseload, be trusted with real responsibility from day one, and develop your technical ability and confidence with hands on support, training and clear progression.

The Role: Private Client (NQ-1 PQE)

You'll provide tailored advice to a loyal client base, maintaining an exceptional standard of service while building strong relationships. The work is varied and will help you develop quickly across core Private Client matters.

Key responsibilities

• Managing a mixed caseload including Wills, Probate, Lasting Powers of Attorney and Court of Protection
• Meeting clients in person and remotely, ensuring a calm, supportive and professional experience
• Providing clear, practical and sensitive advice tailored to each client's circumstances
• Drafting legal documents with accuracy and strong attention to detail
• Maintaining excellent file management and ensuring SRA compliance throughout
• Working collaboratively with the wider team to contribute to monthly targets and service standards
• Supporting the continued growth of the practice through strong client relationships and proactive engagement

What our client is looking for

This role will suit someone who combines technical capability with genuine empathy and professionalism, as clients may be dealing with emotional or complex situations.

Essential requirements

• Qualified Solicitor (England & Wales) or due to qualify imminently
• 0-1 years' PQE (newly qualified level)
• UK Private Client experience gained through a training seat and/or post qualification work
• Confidence handling matters across Wills, Probate and LPAs (Court of Protection exposure beneficial)
• Excellent client care with the ability to communicate clearly and sensitively
• Strong organisation, file management and attention to detail
• A collaborative approach and a calm, professional manner

Desirable (nice to have)

• Experience with Court of Protection work
• Exposure to business development, networking or relationship led client growth

Location and working arrangements

• Chelmsford area (office based client meetings form part of the role)
• Hybrid working may be available depending on experience and team requirements (to be confirmed at interview)

Salary and benefits Salary

• £38,000-£48,000 (dependent on experience and fit)

Benefits package

• Ongoing professional training and development
• Medicash (health, dental and eye care)
• 26 days' annual leave + bank holidays
• Annual leave loyalty scheme
• Office closed between Christmas and New Year
• Discounted parking (Chelmsford)
• Staff referral scheme
• Team events and get togethers
• Free fruit in the office
• Dress down Fridays

Career progression

This is a strong platform for an NQ to develop into a well rounded Private Client solicitor, with scope to grow your caseload complexity and responsibility over time, supported by training and a team that values high standards and client care.

Apply / enquire (confidential)

To apply or have a confidential chat before sending a CV, contact:

David Hawthorne Finch
Hawthorne Finch Talent Solutions Ltd (H FTS)
Email: d.hawthorne

If you're not actively looking but would be open to hearing more, feel free to reach out for a discreet conversation.

Confidentiality statement: All applications and enquiries will be handled in strict confidence.