Legal Assistant, Auctions

Job Description

At Howells, we combine a fresh and forward-thinking approach with a client-focused, local feel to deliver a range of award-winning, quality services.

Working within our Auctions team, you will provide high-quality administrative support to fee earners, contributing to the smooth running of transactions and ensuring exceptional service is delivered to clients at all times.

What You’ll Be Responsible For

• Supporting fee earners with the administration of residential and commercial property transactions conducted by auction, ensuring matters progress efficiently and key deadlines are met.
• Assisting with client onboarding, including obtaining instructions, carrying out identity verification and anti-money laundering (AML) checks, and reviewing source of funds and gifted deposit information.
• Preparing and issuing legal correspondence, documents and forms using the firm’s case management system.
• Drafting and preparing legal documentation, including transfer deeds, completion statements and other transaction-related documents under supervision.
• Assisting with the exchange and completion process for auction sales and purchases, ensuring all required documentation is in place.
• Preparing, reviewing and collating auction legal packs, including title documents, searches, property information forms, special conditions of sale and supporting legal documentation.
• Opening, maintaining and closing client files in accordance with firm procedures and regulatory requirements.
• Acting as a key point of contact for clients, estate agents, auction houses, solicitors and other third parties, responding to enquiries in a professional and timely manner.
• Providing regular updates to clients and stakeholders on the progress of matters and escalating issues to fee earners where appropriate.
• Ensuring client records, correspondence and legal documents are accurately filed and maintained in both electronic and paper formats.
• Assisting with post-completion administration and ensuring all relevant documentation is processed and stored correctly.
• Delivering a high standard of client care and contributing to a positive client experience throughout the transaction.
• Liaising with colleagues across the firm to obtain information, resolve queries and support the smooth progression of matters.