Life as a Private Client Executive and SQE Trainee Solicitor

For anyone considering a career in law, one of the biggest questions is which area of practice will suit you. Private Client Law offers a career that is technically challenging, people focused and varied. As a Private Client Executive at Harold G Walker Solicitors, training to qualify as a solicitor through the SQE route, I see every day how impactful this work can be.

What working in Private Client Law involves

Private Client Law covers Wills, Trusts, Probate, Court of Protection and Management of Affairs. It places you at the centre of significant life events and requires both precision and sound judgement.

Drafting Wills involves more than recording instructions. It requires a clear understanding of family structures, tax considerations and long term planning. Every clause must be accurate. A small error can have serious consequences.

Trust work demands strong technical knowledge. You must understand fiduciary duties, tax implications and the responsibilities placed on trustees. At the same time, you are advising families who want to protect assets or provide for future generations.

Probate work requires organisation and resilience. You guide executors through the administration of estates, deal with financial institutions and ensure compliance with legal and tax obligations. You are often supporting clients at a difficult time, so clarity and efficiency matter.

Court of Protection and Management of Affairs work involves acting for individuals who lack capacity. The responsibility is significant. Decisions affect finances, property and long term welfare. It is work that requires integrity and attention to detail.

Private Client Law offers early client contact and real responsibility. You are not hidden behind research tasks. You are advising, drafting and progressing matters from the outset.

Training through the SQE route

I am qualifying as a solicitor through the Solicitors Qualifying Examination route. The SQE focuses on practical legal skills as well as legal knowledge. Studying while working full time is demanding, but it strengthens your development. You apply legal principles in live files rather than only in theory.

The SQE route also reflects how the profession is evolving. There is no single traditional pathway. It rewards initiative, time management and commitment.

For aspiring solicitors, it shows that qualification is accessible through different routes while maintaining high standards.

Involvement with the Junior Lawyers Division

Alongside my role, I am the Charities Officer for the Bournemouth and District Junior Lawyers Division. The Junior Lawyers Division provides support and networking opportunities for aspiring and junior lawyers in the local area.

As Charities Officer, I organise fundraising initiatives and community events. The role has strengthened my leadership and organisational skills and allowed me to build connections across different practice areas.

Getting involved in groups such as the Junior Lawyers Division is invaluable for anyone interested in a legal career. It expands your network, builds confidence and provides insight into the profession beyond your own firm.

Why consider Private Client Law?

If you are interested in a career that combines technical expertise with direct client responsibility, Private Client Law is worth exploring. It suits those who are analytical, organised and comfortable dealing with complex personal and financial matters.

Working at Harold G Walker Solicitors while training through the SQE has shown me that law is practical, demanding and rewarding. You see the outcome of your work. You build long term client relationships. You take responsibility early.

For anyone considering a career in law, seek experience, speak to practitioners and remain open minded about qualification routes. Private Client Law offers a career built on trust, accountability and real impact.

Rebekah Taylor

Harold G Walker Solicitors

rebekahtaylor@hgwalker.co.uk