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Legal Secretary (Private Client)
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Legal Secretary (Private Client)
Location: Chelmsford, Essex
Department: Private Client
Position: Full-Time, Permanent
About the Role
We are seeking an experienced and highly organised Legal Secretary to join our busy Private Client team in Chelmsford. This is an excellent opportunity for a proactive individual who enjoys providing exceptional support to fee earners while delivering outstanding client service.
The successful candidate will play a key role in ensuring the efficient day-to-day operation of the department, supporting solicitors with a broad range of Private Client matters including Wills, Probate, Lasting Powers of Attorney (LPAs), Trusts, and Estate Administration. Previous experience within a Private Client department is highly desirable.
Key Responsibilities
- Provide comprehensive secretarial and administrative support to one or more fee earners.
- Prepare, amend, proofread and format legal documentation and correspondence.
- Audio typing and digital dictation using case management systems.
- Draft routine correspondence and legal documents including:
- Wills
- Lasting Powers of Attorney
- Probate documentation
- Estate accounts
- Trust documentation
- Open, maintain and close client files in accordance with firm procedures.
- Manage fee earners' diaries, appointments, meetings and travel arrangements.
- Handle incoming telephone calls and emails professionally, taking accurate messages where required.
- Liaise with clients, beneficiaries, financial institutions, HMRC, the Probate Registry and other third parties.
- Carry out client onboarding procedures, including ID verification and Anti-Money Laundering (AML) checks.
- Prepare bills, process expenses and assist with file management and archiving.
- Ensure all work is completed accurately and within required timescales.
- Maintain strict confidentiality and comply with the firm's policies and regulatory requirements.
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Skills & Experience
Essential
- Previous experience as a Legal Secretary within a Private Client department.
- Excellent audio typing and document production skills.
- Strong Microsoft Office skills (Word, Outlook, Excel).
- Experience using legal case management systems.
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
- Highly organised with exceptional attention to detail.
- Ability to prioritise workload and meet deadlines.
- Professional, personable and client-focused approach.
- Ability to work both independently and as part of a team.
Desirable
- Experience working with digital dictation software.
- Knowledge of Wills, Probate, LPAs and Estate Administration processes.
- Familiarity with legal compliance procedures including AML and client onboarding.
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Personal Attributes
The successful candidate will demonstrate:
- Excellent interpersonal and communication skills.
- A calm and empathetic approach when dealing with clients, particularly those experiencing bereavement or other sensitive circumstances.
- Strong organisational and time management abilities.
- High levels of discretion and professionalism.
- A proactive attitude with a willingness to support colleagues across the department.
- Accuracy, reliability and a commitment to delivering high-quality work.
What We Offer
- Competitive salary dependent on experience.
- Company pension scheme.
- Friendly, supportive and collaborative working environment.
- Modern offices in Chelmsford with excellent transport links.
- Opportunities for career progression within a well-established and growing law firm.
Equal Opportunities
We are committed to creating an inclusive workplace where everyone is treated fairly and with respect. We welcome applications from all suitably qualified candidates regardless of age, disability, gender identity, marital status, race, religion or belief, sex or sexual orientation.
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