A Day in the Life of a Newly Qualified Solicitor - Wills, Trusts and Probate

Working in Wills, Trusts and Probate is much more varied than people often expect. As a newly qualified solicitor, my days are busy and practical, with a mix of client contact, drafting, and managing ongoing matters.  

Starting the Day

I usually start the day by checking emails and organising my workload across my probate, trust, Will, and Lasting Power of Attorney (LPA) files. With lots of matters running at once, staying organised is essential. I’ll prioritise urgent tasks, diarise deadlines, and make sure I know what needs my attention first.

Before any client meetings, I spend time refreshing my knowledge of the file and anticipating questions that might come up. There’s often a quick chat with colleagues in the morning too, whether that is checking a point of law, talking through a tricky issue, or just catching up over a coffee before the day gets going.

Meeting Clients

Meeting clients is a key part of my role and one of the most rewarding aspects of my job. This might involve taking instructions for a new Will, advising on LPAs, or talking executors through the probate process.

Many clients come to us at difficult or emotional times and are not always sure what they need or what the next steps are. A big part of my job is explaining things clearly, answering questions, and helping clients feel reassured and supported throughout the process.  

Drafting and Day-to-Day Work

Between meetings, I spend most of my time drafting Wills, LPAs, trust deeds, and probate documents, as well as corresponding with clients, financial institutions, and other third parties. The work is detailed and technical, but it is also creative. Every client’s circumstances are different, so each document needs to be carefully tailored to reflect their wishes and family situation.

Taking Time to Recharge

Like any busy role, it is important to take breaks to reset. Whether it is stepping away from my desk for lunch, grabbing a coffee with friends, or going for a walk outside, those moments help maintain focus and energy for the rest of the day.

Learning on the Job

One of the best parts of being newly qualified is how much you learn every day. No two matters are the same, and each file brings new challenges and opportunities to build confidence and experience. Working in a supportive team means there is always someone available to offer guidance or talk things through, which makes a huge difference.

Final Thoughts

Wills, Trusts and Probate is a very people focused area of law. It suits anyone who enjoys working closely with clients, collaborating with colleagues, and dealing with a wide range of legal and personal issues. For aspiring solicitors, it offers a career that is varied, hands on, and genuinely rewarding, and one where you really do feel the impact of your work.

Emily Shepard

Ellis Jones LLP

emily.shepard@ellisjones.co.uk