Legal Executive - Private Client

Wedlake Bell's highly regarded Private Client team (Legal 500, Chambers ranked, and a STEP Employer Platinum Partner) are recruiting for an experienced Legal Executive to join our growing practice. This is a full-time, permanent position.

The Private Client Group (PC) consists of six distinct and successful teams – Onshore, Offshore (International), Disputes, Art & Luxury, Family, and Residential Property. Our clients range from HNW and UHNW individuals, family offices, entrepreneurs, stewards of landed estates, charitable trustees, executors, amongst others. Wedlake Bell has one of the longest-standing and most trusted Private Client practices in the City, and we pride ourselves on our relationships and reputation with our clients.

This Legal Executive role sits within our PC Onshore team (though you will work closely with colleagues across the PC Offshore and PC Disputes teams) delivering advice on a range of matters including: drafting Wills, probate, estate administration, Lasting Powers of Attorney, to name a few. You will receive first-class mentorship and training from our partners, and the opportunity to work closely with our clients.

This is an excellent opportunity for a driven Legal Executive (FCILEx) to join a thriving Private Client practice dealing with a variety of high-level work, where you will have real opportunities to advance your expertise in working with HNW clients and professional development. If this sounds interesting, and you have a strong background in private client work, we encourage you to apply.

Find out more about our wider Private Client practice here.

About Us:

Located in the heart of the City of London, Wedlake Bell is a Top 100 law firm offering full services across Private Client, Real Estate, Business Services, and Disputes. The firm has 81 Partners and a total headcount of around 400. We have grown year-on-year, attributed to the continual success of our legal teams, and the dedication of our staff members.

Our culture is widely recognised as one of the best in City law, built on trust, collaboration, and mutual respect. Joining us, you will be part of a firm which supports work/life balance, personal development, and building strong connections. With regular cross-firm socials and events (including our renowned yearly ski trip and walking trips!), you will quickly feel like part of the WB team!

Key Responsibilities:

• Working on a range of private client matters, including:
  • Supporting the day-to-day administration of estates, both testate and intestate, from beginning to end;
  • Drafting Wills, Trust Deeds, Tax Forms, and other associated documents relating to probate and estate administration;
  • Assisting with the provision of UK tax and estate planning advice to UK HNW clients with a focus on Inheritance Tax and Capital Gains Tax planning;
  • Acquiring and disposing of UK assets (often property);
  • Drafting Lasting Powers of Attorney;
  • Assisting with the creation and administration of trusts;
  • Working closely with colleagues across the PC Onshore, Offshore, and Disputes teams;
• Acting as a day-to-day contact for advising clients on ongoing or new matters;
• Developing the team's practice by promoting the firm and its work, both to existing and potential clients; and
• Other ad-hoc duties as required.

Key Skills and Qualifications:

• Strong experience working in a private client law practice, ideally working with HNW or UHNW clients within the UK;
• Significant experience (at least 3 years post-qualification) advising on private client matters;
• Be a qualified Legal Executive (must be FCILEx qualified) in England & Wales;
• Ideally STEP qualified (or willing to undertake STEP qualification) – though this is not essential;
• A clear and developed understanding of private client law and its application;
• Strong client relationship and business-development skills;
• Strong academic history and ability to "think outside the box" and analyse; and
• A high level of professionalism and integrity.

Why join us?

• A competitive starting salary and bonus;
• A comprehensive pension plan;
• 25 days paid holiday per annum, plus additional leave for significant life events;
• Option to purchase up to five additional days of holiday each year;
• Life Assurance and competitive income protection scheme;
• Access to Private Medical and Dental Insurance from day one;
• Enhanced parental leave policies;
• Employee Assistance Programme with face-to-face counselling services;
• Variety of staff wellbeing initiatives including Pilates classes and subsidised gym memberships; and
• A range of bonus schemes recognising referrals and client introductions.

We are dedicated to fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace, where every individual is respected and valued. We welcome applications from all qualified candidates, irrespective of their background or personal circumstances.

If you are passionate about joining a busy team and are eager for a challenging yet fulfilling career, we encourage you to apply.