At a Glance
- Tasks: Provide essential secretarial support to Family Law solicitors and manage client communications.
- Company: Join one of the UK's leading law firms with a modern mindset and collaborative culture.
- Benefits: Enjoy a competitive salary, medical cash plan, life assurance, and opportunities for personal development.
- Other info: Flexible working arrangements available; join us in St Austell or Truro.
- Why this job: Be part of a supportive team delivering exceptional client service in a busy legal environment.
- Qualifications: Previous secretarial experience, strong organisational skills, and proficiency in IT required.
The predicted salary is between 27000 - 33000 £ per year.
Coodes LLP has been named one of the UK’s leading law firms in the 2026 Chambers and Partners Guide, the Chambers High Net Worth Guide, and Legal 500, with top rankings across multiple departments.
We’re proud of our Investors in People Silver accreditation, recognising our commitment to supporting long-term, rewarding careers.
Whether you're just starting out or looking to take the next step, we will help you thrive.
Our values, professionalism, integrity, teamwork, fairness, enterprise, and excellence, are at the heart of everything we do.
We foster a collaborative, inclusive environment where everyone’s contribution is valued.
While our history is long, our mindset is modern.
We’re known as one of the most progressive firms in the region, with a strong reputation for innovation and excellence in client service.
At Coodes, you will work alongside some of the region’s most respected legal professionals, delivering outstanding service to clients across the South West.
Whether your passion lies in private client work, commercial law, litigation, or support services, you’ll find a home here.
Ready to take the next step in your legal career? Join a firm where tradition meets innovation and where people come first.
Due to continued growth and an increasing demand for our services, an exciting opportunity has arisen for an experienced Senior Secretary to join our highly regarded Family Law Department.
This role offers the chance to become a key member of a well-established and supportive team, providing high-quality secretarial and administrative support to our Family Law solicitors while helping to deliver an exceptional client experience.
As a Senior Secretary, you will play a vital role in ensuring the efficient day-to-day operation of the Family Law Department.
You will provide comprehensive secretarial support, manage competing priorities, and act as a trusted point of contact for clients and colleagues.
Working closely with fee earners, you will contribute to the smooth progression of matters while maintaining the high standards of service for which Coodes is known.
What You Will Do
- Provide comprehensive secretarial and administrative support to Family Law solicitors and fee earners.
- Prepare and manage legal documents, correspondence, court bundles and client files.
- Coordinate diaries, meetings and appointments, acting as a key point of contact for clients and third parties.
- Support the efficient running of the department through file management, billing and general administration.
Experience and Qualifications You Need
- Previous secretarial experience, ideally within a legal or professional services environment.
- Excellent organisational skills with the ability to manage competing priorities.
- Strong IT skills, including Microsoft Office and document management systems.
- Professional communication skills with a high level of accuracy and attention to detail.
- You Will Love This Role If
- You enjoy working in a busy, professional and client-focused environment.
- You take pride in delivering high-quality work and exceptional support.
- You thrive as part of a collaborative and supportive team.
- You are looking for opportunities to develop your skills and progress your career.
- You Will Be a Success If
- You are organised, proactive and able to work independently.
- You communicate confidently and professionally with clients and colleagues.
- You can manage multiple tasks while maintaining accuracy and attention to detail.
- You demonstrate initiative, reliability and a positive team-focused approach.
The role offers exceptional opportunities for personal development and advancement within a well-established team.
Our Family Law department is one of the largest in the county and offers a full range of family law services, including divorce, financial proceedings, domestic violence and injunctions, and children matters in both private and public law.
- Additional Benefits Include
- Medical cash plan
- Life assurance
- Holiday trading
- Private medical insurance options
- Cycle to work scheme
- Discounted shopping platform
- Location
Ideally St Austell or Truro, although we are open to discussion regarding which of our eight locations best suits you.
Hours
This is a full‑time position, working 35 hours per week, Monday to Friday. However, we welcome applications from candidates seeking alternative working arrangements.
DBS
This vacancy will be subject to a DBS Check.
Applications close
Midnight on Sunday 22 November 2026.
Speculative candidates submitted through agencies we have not instructed will not be considered to be represented by that agency.
We reserve the right to close this vacancy early should a suitable candidate be identified.
Family Senior Secretary employer: Coodes
Coodes is an attractive employer due to its commitment to employee development and a supportive work culture. The firm values teamwork and integrity, providing a collaborative environment where contributions are recognized. With a strong reputation for excellence in client service, Coodes offers meaningful career opportunities in law.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Family Senior Secretary
✨Get Involved in Law Societies
Join local law societies and attend their events – they're often a goldmine for networking and job opportunities in the legal field. Plus, it’s a great way to meet other budding lawyers and experienced solicitors who could provide vital insights and connections.
✨Tap into Online Legal Communities
Don’t underestimate the power of online platforms like LinkedIn and specific legal forums. Get active in discussions or share your thoughts on recent legal developments – this not only builds your visibility but also showcases your passion and knowledge in law.
✨Attend Career Fairs and Workshops
Look out for career fairs and workshops specifically focused on law. Many law firms, including Coodes, will be scouting for fresh talent, so bring your A-game and don’t shy away from making a memorable impression.
✨Leverage Your University’s Career Services
If you’re still in university or have recently graduated, latch onto your career services! They often have connections with law firms looking for graduates and can guide you through the application process tailored for the legal sector.
We think you need these skills to ace Family Senior Secretary
Some tips for your application 🫡
Highlight Your Legal Knowledge:When applying for a full-time role in legal services at Coodes, make sure to demonstrate your understanding of key legal principles and areas of law relevant to the position. Include any specific coursework, modules, or certifications, like LPC or BPTC qualifications, that showcase your legal expertise directly on your CV.
Showcase Your Research Skills:In the legal field, strong research skills are crucial. Use your application to illustrate how you've utilised these skills in past studies or work experiences – whether that's through past internships or significant projects. Mention any legal databases or tools you’re proficient in, as this can give you an edge.
Tailor That Cover Letter!:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Make it personal by expressing your genuine interest in Coodes and the specific role of Family Senior Secretary. Talk about why you want to be part of their team, how your unique experiences align with their values, and why you’re passionate about the legal sector.
Stay Formal but Friendly:While we all know the legal world can be pretty formal, don’t be afraid to let a bit of personality shine through in your written application. Use a respectful tone, but feel free to inject a little warmth; this approach can help you stand out and show you're a great fit for Coodes’s culture!
How to prepare for a job interview at Coodes
✨Know Your Legal Principles
Brush up on foundational legal principles relevant to the specific area of law you’re applying for, whether it’s corporate, criminal, or family law. We might get asked situational questions to test your knowledge, so being articulate about key concepts will make you stand out.
✨Be Ready for Case Studies
Full-time legal roles often involve case studies during interviews. Prepare to analyse a hypothetical case and discuss your approach to it. Practising this with a peer or mentor can help us refine our reasoning and articulate a solid legal argument.
✨Show Off Your Research Skills
As legal professionals, strong research skills are a must. Have examples ready of how you've effectively used legal databases or conducted thorough legal research in your past experiences. It's a great way to demonstrate your readiness for the role at Coodes.
✨Exude Professionalism and Confidence
In the legal field, professionalism is key. During the interview, we should maintain good eye contact and communicate clearly to show that we’re not just knowledgeable, but also confident. This can make a positive impression on your potential colleagues at Coodes.
