Contentious Probate Solicitor

• Mid-level Contentious Probate role with Legal 500–quality work
• Clear opportunity to become the go-to specialist in a growing department
• Hybrid working, strong work–life balance, and genuine progression in York

This is a rare opportunity for a Contentious Probate Solicitor to step into a well-established, highly regarded private client litigation offering in York.

You’ll be joining a department that creates a genuine opportunity for someone who is already reasonably self-sufficient to take ownership of high-quality contentious trust and probate matters and quickly become the day-to-day specialist.

The work is varied, technical, and interesting, with a steady pipeline of instructions coming from one of the largest private client teams in North Yorkshire, as well as strong links to property and agricultural work.

Who we’re looking for

• 3–6 years’ PQE
• Will consider 1PQE+ with strong litigation exposure
• Background in contentious probate, or general/civil litigation with relevant exposure
• Able to run files independently and manage client relationships
• Commercial, pragmatic approach to advice
• Interest in developing a practice area and contributing to growth
• Collaborative, grounded, and professional in approach

What you’ll be doing

• Running a high-quality contentious probate and trusts caseload
• Working closely with private client, property, and agriculture teams
• Building relationships with internal referrers
• Playing a key role in rebuilding the mid-tier of the department
• Supporting the longer-term growth of the contentious probate offering
• Mentoring more junior colleagues as the team develops (depending on experience)

Salary & Benefits

• Bonus potential
• Hybrid working – typically 2 days from home
• Flexible hours with sensible core hours
• 26 days holiday + bank holidays (rising to 29 with service)
• Birthday day off
• Health cash plan
• Enhanced family leave
• Pension (employer contribution)
• Cycle to work scheme
• Study support
• Death in service benefit

Contact Bill Szajna-Hopgood

📩 bill.szajna-hopgood@realmrecruit.com
📞 03300 245 606

Bill specialises in Private Client and Contentious Probate roles across Yorkshire and can talk you through how this opportunity compares to other contentious trust and probate positions in the region — including long-term progression and specialism potential.