Legal Secretary - Private Client

Law Staff Ltd; St Albans; On-site; GBP 40,000 - 60,000

Job description

Our client is seeking a Legal Secretary to join their esteemed Private Client team. The role involves providing secretarial and administrative support to at least two Fee Earners while ensuring outstanding client service.

The Private Client team is one of the largest and most experienced in the area, comprising four partners, one consultant, three senior associates, six solicitors, a Court of Protection manager, and four legal assistants.

The Firm:

Our client is a distinguished law firm, ranked in the Top 500 and holding numerous prestigious accreditations in recognition of their exceptional legal advice. With a rich history spanning two centuries, they have cultivated a strong and respected presence as a premier law firm in the Hertfordshire and London regions. Committed to progress, they are continually evolving and have a dedicated team of over 100 professionals.

What will be expected of you?

1. Handle incoming telephone calls, assisting clients with enquiries when the lawyer is unavailable.
2. Welcome and assist clients visiting the office without appointments, addressing queries, taking messages, and making detailed file notes on behalf of the lawyers.
3. Open and close client files in accordance with standard procedures, including conducting online money laundering checks and supporting manual risk management checks.
4. Communicate with clients as instructed by lawyers.
5. Manage lawyers' diaries, schedule appointments, and coordinate internal and external meetings, including booking meeting rooms and arranging refreshments.
6. Organise outgoing post and emails efficiently.
7. Maintain internal and client files, ensuring all information is consistently up-to-date.
8. Provide typing support for lawyers, including drafting standard letters and forms for lawyer approval.
9. Handle general document management, including requesting and logging deeds entering and leaving the firm.
10. Coordinate with the accounts team to ensure accurate and timely financial administration, including processing transaction requisitions through the Peppermint system, recording cheque details, and passing them to accounts.
11. Input client and potential client contact details into Peppermint, Isokon (probate case management system), and Hoowla (residential case management system).
12. Perform general administrative tasks such as photocopying and archiving files.
13. Maintain a clean, organised office environment.
14. Report any issues with IT, telephones, or printers.
15. Collaborate with the wider team, providing secretarial and telephone cover as needed.
16. Assist with client and administrative matters, including risk management tasks.
17. Adhere to firm policies and procedures, demonstrating compliance and familiarity at all times.

Is this the position for you?

1. Previous secretarial experience in a law firm is desirable.
2. Strong client relationship skills with a confident approach.
3. Good understanding of client service and the context of the work.
4. Fast, accurate keyboard skills (minimum 50 wpm).
5. Excellent grammar, spelling, and communication skills.
6. Proficient in relevant software packages and case management systems.
7. High level of organisation with the ability to prioritise tasks.
8. Initiative and willingness to take direction and feedback positively.
9. Ability to remain calm under pressure.
10. Punctual with good timekeeping.
11. Smart, professional appearance.
12. Attention to detail.
13. Trustworthy and reliable.