Executive Summary
We are looking for a proactive, enthusiastic Legal Practice Assistant to join our Charity and Social Enterprise administration team on a part time basis, working 5 days per week, 09.30 – 14.15.
The role
The purpose of the role is to support the firm's legal knowledge and knowledge management function by maintaining know-how resources, including precedent documents, practice notes and other knowledge materials, as well as coordinating and supporting internal training initiatives across the practice which include uploading information and knowledge to a designated hub. This may also include administrative support services which enable our lawyers to focus on client work and business development.
This is an excellent opportunity for someone with experience in or an interest in legal knowledge management who is confident building strong working relationships and working collaboratively with lawyers and business services teams.
Key Responsibilities
Key responsibilities
Collaborating with lawyers and Business Services teams to develop, maintain and enhance legal know-how resources, support knowledge-sharing initiatives, and promote the effective use of knowledge management systems and processes across the firm, including:
Developing, maintaining and updating know-how resources, including precedents, practice notes, guidance materials and templates.
Supporting the creation and delivery of internal training, legal updates and knowledge-sharing initiatives.
Working with lawyers to capture, organise and share knowledge and best practice from matters and projects.
Producing and editing knowledge content, communications, presentations and other training materials.
Adding content to knowledge management systems to ensure information is accurate, accessible and up to date.
Building strong relationships with lawyers and Business Services teams to identify knowledge needs and promote effective knowledge sharing.
Assisting with knowledge-related projects and continuous improvement initiatives across the practice and firm.
Applying your knowledge and proficiency in the MS Office Suite, iManage and other relevant software, to manage all documents and correspondence accurately, including:
Creating, maintaining and formatting precedents, practice notes, training materials and other know-how resources.
Creating and editing documents, spreadsheets and PowerPoint presentations.
Preparing training materials and knowledge collections for lawyers and practice groups.
Maintaining trackers of key knowledge documents and contributions to knowledge
Electronic and paper filing, and archiving.
Managing knowledge repositories to ensure materials are organised, accessible, accurate and up to date.
General administrative support, including:
Providing diary and inbox management as required.
Supporting lawyers with travel arrangements, expenses management, etc.
Conducting research and other ad hoc duties as required.
Specific tasks may change over time, so we’ll need you to be adaptable and flexible as we continue to meet our clients’ needs.
Skills, Knowledge and Expertise
Key experience
Ideally, you will have secretarial experience in legal knowledge management within a UK-based law firm; preferable experience supporting internal training and knowledge-sharing activities
Essential skills
Minimum of 60 WPM typing speed preferred.
Excellent literacy, numeracy, attention to accuracy, and strong IT skills, including high levels of proficiency in Word, Outlook, Excel, PowerPoint, iManage and Sharepoint.
Experience with complex Word documents, specifically using merge codes and conditional paragraphs.
Strong diary management capabilities.
Desirable skills
Relevant CILEX or BTEC Administration qualifications.
About you
A friendly, personable, and enthusiastic outlook and the ability to build and nurture relationships.
Passionate about knowledge sharing and supporting lawyers to access, develop and use legal know-how effectively.
Strong organisational skills, resilience, and proactivity, anticipating and actioning next steps.
A collaborative approach, valuing teamwork, adaptability and flexibility.
A confident communicator, able to engage effectively with stakeholders at all levels and deliver training and guidance where required.
Strong commercial awareness and an understanding of how legal knowledge management supports a successful legal practice.
A genuine interest in legal developments and continuous learning.
You share our values and want to make a difference.
You want to feel that you are a part of the Bates Wells experience and ‘belong’.
Working collaboratively as part of the practice support team assisting our lawyers by:
Taking ownership and using initiative to ensure that all tasks are completed efficiently and to a high standard, using the tools and resources available.
Actively pursuing continuous development and staying updated on policies, processes, workflows, and technology.
Benefits
Impact-Driven Purpose
We align profit with social purpose to create lasting positive impact for our people, communities, and planet.
We align profit with social purpose to create lasting positive impact for our people, communities, and planet.
Committed to the Climate
Through our Climate Programme, we reduce environmental impact and drive a just transition to net zero.
Championing Inclusion
We foster a diverse, inclusive culture where creativity and innovation thrive.
Flexible and Hybrid Working
Our hybrid model supports balance, with part-time options and at least two office days weekly.
Progressive Benefits
We offer green pensions, IVF support, private healthcare, and more for your well-being and growth.
Legal Practice Assisstant - Knowledge - Part time in London employer: Bates Wells
Bates Wells is an exceptional employer that champions inclusivity and collaboration, making it a fantastic place for professionals seeking meaningful work. With a strong focus on employee growth, the Practice Manager role offers opportunities to engage with diverse teams, contribute to strategic projects, and enhance operational efficiency within a supportive environment. Located in a vibrant community, Bates Wells not only values its employees but also fosters a culture where everyone can thrive and feel a sense of belonging.
