- Follow the Team Leader’s (TL) guidance to take client instructions and move cases forward. This includes tasks like drafting Wills, Powers of Attorney, and handling Estate and Trust administration.
- Provide a friendly and efficient service to clients.
- Make sure all work sent to clients and others is properly prepared according to the firm’s standards and the TL’s instructions.
- Introduce clients to other lawyers in different departments when needed.
- Achieve the annual fee target by recording at least 720 chargeable hours per year (averaging 60 hours per month) at the agreed charging rates set by the Team Leader (TL).
- Adhere to the Solicitors' Code of Conduct in all aspects of work and fully comply with the Solicitors’ Accounts Rules.
- Report any complaints from clients or third parties to the Head of Department (HOD).
- Keep track of an assigned caseload to make sure everything is organised, files are managed well, and time-recording and accounting are done properly. This includes:o Entering data into probate systems for probate matters and generating necessary reports/forms.o Writing legal statements for probate applications.o Drafting Wills and Lasting Powers of Attorney.o Preparing any other documents needed by the TL.
-  Be familiar with the firm’s computer systems and follow IT instructions.
- Keep your workspace organised, reduce clutter, and store files in the correct cabinets.
- Bill matters on time, keep a proper level of work-in-progress, and collect and pay disbursements according to professional rules. Ensure all client money is accounted for and transfer funds to the office account when necessary.
- Collect any outstanding fees or disbursements from clients and make sure unpaid costs don’t exceed the limit set by your TL.
- Open and close client files, including performing online money laundering checks.
- Answer the phone or meet clients who show up without an appointment, helping them with queries and taking messages where needed.
- Stay in touch with clients as instructed.
- Keep track of Lawyers' diaries and schedule appointments.
- Set up internal and external meetings, including booking rooms and arranging refreshments when required.
- Â Handle outgoing post and emails.
- Keep internal and client files up-to-date.
- Assist with typing tasks for fee earners.
- Organise work received from outsourcing companies, making sure it’s ready to send out.
- Work with the Accounts Department to handle cheques, enter details on files, and forward them to accounts.
- Update client contact details in the Peppermint/Isokon system.
- Handle basic admin duties like photocopying.
- Take care of file archiving.
- Keep the office neat and organised.
- Report any issues with IT, printing, photocopying, or fax machines.
- Be a team player, helping with secretarial or phone cover when needed.
- Handle initial client queries from the “drop-in” service.
- Keep track of important legal documents like Wills and deeds according to the required process.
Private Client Legal Assistant
Law Staff Limited
Posted 2 days ago, valid for a month
St. Albans, Hertfordshire AL3 6JZ, England
Full Time
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Sonic Summary
- Our client is seeking a skilled Legal Secretary to support their Private Client team, providing essential administrative assistance to at least two Fee Earners.
- Candidates should have experience in a Private Client Department or relevant legal qualifications, along with previous secretarial experience in a Law Firm.
- The role requires strong communication skills, fast and accurate typing, and the ability to multitask and prioritize effectively under pressure.
- The firm offers a competitive salary of ÂŁ35,000 per year and expects candidates to have at least two years of relevant experience.
- The successful applicant will be part of a well-regarded team known for their exceptional service and commitment to client care.