Head of Contentious Trusts and Estates (c.8+ PQE)
Location
West Yorkshire
Salary
£75000-90000 per annum
Sector
Private Practice
Type
Permanent Role
Practice Area
Contentious Probate
Reference
JR/S/1504T
A well-established regional firm is looking to appoint a senior contentious trusts and estates lawyer to take ownership of and develop its offering in this area. This is a leadership role with a credible platform already in place, consistent workflow from established referral channels, and the opportunity to shape how this area develops over the next few years rather than simply maintaining what exists.
About the Firm
The firm has a strong and established presence across West Yorkshire, with well-regarded private wealth and litigation teams that generate a steady flow of contentious probate work. It operates in a collaborative, partner-led way, where teams work closely rather than in silos, and where there is a clear focus on long-term client relationships rather than short-term wins. The structure allows senior lawyers to have real input into how their practice evolves, without unnecessary internal friction.
Role Overview
- You will lead the contentious trusts and estates practice, taking responsibility for an existing caseload while working closely with private wealth and litigation colleagues on referred matters.
- There is a solid foundation of work already in place, alongside clear headroom to grow the practice further through internal relationships and external profile building.
- You will support and develop junior fee earners, providing technical guidance, supervision, and day-to-day leadership within the team.
- The role offers genuine autonomy to shape how the practice develops, including input into structure, resourcing, and longer-term growth.
- You will be expected to play a visible role within the firm, contributing to its wider strategy and strengthening its position in this area of work.
Candidate Profile
- Likely to suit an experienced contentious trusts and estates lawyer operating at Legal Director or Partner level.
- You should be confident managing complex contentious probate matters independently and comfortable leading others.
- An interest in developing a practice and building on an existing platform is important.
- A following may be helpful but is not essential; the focus is on someone who can take ownership of what is already there and grow it.
What now?
An initial conversation can take place discreetly, and you don't need a CV to start. For more information, please contact Joe Rees at Thornton Legal on 07903 222 898 or joe@thorntonlegal.co.uk.
Thornton Legal connects talented lawyers with leading law firms across the North West, West Yorkshire and the West Midlands. We believe in straightforward, transparent recruitment that focuses on quality relationships, not volume.
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