Introduction
In recent years, the field of wills and probate in the United Kingdom has witnessed a significant surge in demand, leading to a remarkable increase in jobs and opportunities within this sector. This year, in particular, has seen a notable rise in the need for professionals well-versed in estate planning, will drafting, and probate administration. This trend can be attributed to various factors, including an ageing population, changing family structures, and a growing awareness of the importance of proper estate planning.
The Aging Population
One of the primary drivers behind the surge in wills and probate jobs is the ageing population of the UK. As the baby boomer generation continues to grow older, there is an increasing need for individuals to plan their estates and ensure their assets are distributed according to their wishes. This has created a substantial demand for will writers, probate solicitors, and estate planners who can assist individuals in creating legally sound and comprehensive wills.
Changing Family Structures
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3. Actively promote diversity and inclusion
The traditional family structure in the UK is evolving, with more complex family arrangements becoming commonplace. Blended families, same-sex couples, and individuals with diverse family dynamics often require more intricate estate planning solutions. This necessitates the expertise of professionals who can navigate these complexities and ensure that assets are distributed in a way that respects the unique family circumstances.
Awareness of Estate Planning
In recent years, there has been a growing awareness of the importance of estate planning among the general public. People are realizing that having a well-drafted will and a properly administered estate can provide peace of mind and financial security for their loved ones. This increased awareness has led to a surge in demand for professionals who can guide individuals through the estate planning process, from drafting wills to handling probate matters efficiently.
Digitalisation and Technology
The adoption of digital technologies has also played a role in the rise of wills and probate jobs. Many legal firms and professionals are leveraging technology to streamline their processes, making it easier to create and manage wills and administer estates. This has created opportunities for tech-savvy professionals who can work at the intersection of law and digital innovation.
Educational and Regulatory Changes
With the rising job opportunities within the wills & probate sector and seemingly an unchanged amount of professionals within the sector, firms have been fighting to attract suitably skilled professionals.
As a byproduct salaries and even benefits packages have increased substantially. A study conducted earlier this year found that 85% of firms have had to increase their current salary offering by at least 5-10%. In addition to this, the average salary increase for all all-professional moving roles within the wills and probate sector is now at 15%. Inflation and other economic factors are further playing a factor in seeing firms have to go above and beyond to attract the right talent.
Conclusion
The rise of wills and probate jobs in the UK is a reflection of the evolving needs of the population and the increasing importance placed on proper estate planning. As the ageing population grows and family structures become more diverse, the demand for professionals skilled in will drafting, probate administration, and estate planning is expected to continue to rise.
This trend not only offers career opportunities for those interested in this field but also ensures that individuals and families can navigate the complexities of estate planning with the help of experts.
At the moment, there is a definite shortage of private client candidates in the market and there seems to be an uncertainty over whether now is a good time to move jobs.
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