Articles From the Team

The Private Client market, Yorkshire

Since January, I have been managing Private Client vacancies alongside my usual Insurance/Personal Injury desk whilst Rozie is on maternity leave. It’s a very different marketplace to the Insurance teams; whereas insurance vacancies attract a high number of applicants for each role, there seems to be very little movement in the private client market.

There are many reasons why candidates choose to stay put, but it seems in this practice area many don’t keep an eye on the market at all with many solicitors remaining with the same firm for their entire career. Don’t get me wrong, we’re a contingency recruiter, so this is great provided you are happy in your role and you’re getting the best possible salary/work pattern/opportunities that you deserve.

We expect to see a 145% increase in private client jobs on last year across the region. The majority of these roles require solicitors with between one and five years’ PQE and a shortage of lawyers with this level of experience is becoming evident. The result of which is that clients will pay good salaries for the right solicitor and they can and will be flexible. The work patterns of a private client solicitor mean that nearly all firms can offer part time hours if required.

When it comes to the salary; private client roles historically attract a lower salary than litigious or commercial disciplines, but there are a number of excellent firms seeking a commercially minded private client lawyer – and the business/international interests of the clients is reflected in the remuneration package. The chance to work with HNW clients and advise on large estates is definitely there for the taking in the Leeds/Yorkshire market. Conversely, I am working with very reputable High Street practices in the region that have a traditional approach to work sourcing and provide good client-facing opportunities. The chance to quickly progress to partner is a genuine offering at these firms.

Keep an eye out for our latest article in the Solicitors Journal which goes into more detail on the Private Client marketplace. This article is supported by Progeny Private Law and is written by BCL Legal Director, Catherine Henry.

If you would like to discuss the private client market and your next career move in more detail then please get in touch with BCL Legal or call us on 0845 241 0933.