At a Glance
- Tasks: Support a dynamic team in managing client enquiries and ensuring smooth operations.
- Company: Join an award-winning law firm known for its collaborative culture and commitment to growth.
- Benefits: Enjoy a competitive salary, comprehensive benefits, and 25 days holiday plus Christmas closure.
- Other info: Opportunities for learning and development in a supportive team.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in a fast-paced environment while developing your legal skills.
- Qualifications: Strong admin skills, attention to detail, and a proactive approach are essential.
Location: Farnborough | Department: Private Wealth & Inheritance
About Herrington Carmichael
Herrington Carmichael LLP isn't your average law firm. We're an award-winning, Legal 500 ranked team known for our commitment to growth, fostering strong relationships, and our ambitious approach to providing full-service legal guidance for businesses, families, and individuals. We value collaboration and strive for excellence in everything we do.
The Opportunity
This is an exciting opportunity to join our busy and growing Private Wealth & Inheritance team. You’ll play a key role in supporting a department of 14 fee earners, ensuring the smooth running of day‑to‑day operations and helping us deliver a professional, efficient, and friendly service to our clients. We're looking for someone organised, proactive, and confident in managing competing priorities within a dynamic environment.
Key Responsibilities
- Acting as the first point of contact for new client enquiries, gathering relevant information and ensuring matters are referred appropriately
- Managing diaries, arranging appointments and meetings, and monitoring key deadlines
- Handling full file administration including opening, maintaining, closing, archiving, and ensuring AML compliance
- Acting as a witness for Will signings and managing Will and LPA collections and storage
- Providing secretarial support including digital dictation, preparing precedent letters, and assisting multiple fee earners
- Ensuring adherence to firm and departmental processes, maintaining up‑to‑date knowledge, and supporting colleagues as needed
- Assisting with billing and accounts processes, preparing bills and statements, and liaising with fee earners, clients, and the accounts team
- Supporting business development activity by logging and analysing enquiries, tracking conversion rates, and monitoring sources of work
- Producing departmental reports for senior team members and Partners
What We’re Looking For
- Strong administrative skills with excellent attention to detail in a fast‑paced environment
- Highly organised with the ability to prioritise and manage work from multiple fee earners
- A proactive approach, showing initiative and an understanding of deadlines
- Confident IT skills and willingness to learn and use firm systems
- Good compliance awareness, particularly in relation to AML requirements
- Excellent client service skills with the ability to handle new enquiries professionally and efficiently
- Strong communication skills, both written and verbal, with the ability to build rapport and maintain professionalism
- Previous experience within Private Wealth & Inheritance is desirable, but experience in other legal secretarial roles will also be considered
- Commercial awareness, understanding the importance of efficiency, quality, and compliance in delivering client services
The Perks
- Competitive salary based on experience
- Comprehensive benefits package including pension, enhanced maternity and paternity pay, 25 days holiday plus Christmas closure, and Perkbox
- Opportunities for learning and development within a supportive and dynamic team
Herrington Carmichael is dedicated to fostering a workplace that celebrates diversity and promotes equal opportunities for all. We welcome applicants from all backgrounds and will provide reasonable adjustments throughout the recruitment process where needed.
Legal Secretary - Private Wealth and Inheritance in Farnborough employer: Herrington Carmichael LLP
At Herrington Carmichael LLP, we are not just a law firm; we are a dynamic and award-winning team dedicated to fostering growth and collaboration. As a Commercial & IP Solicitor, you will thrive in a supportive environment that values your professional development, offering competitive salaries, generous bonuses, and flexible working arrangements. Join us in our Thames Valley office, where you will work with renowned brands and innovative companies, making a meaningful impact while advancing your legal career.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Legal Secretary - Private Wealth and Inheritance in Farnborough
✨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.
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✨Attend Career Fairs and Workshops
Look out for career fairs and workshops specifically focused on law. Many law firms, including Herrington Carmichael LLP, 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
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Some tips for your application 🫡
Highlight Your Legal Knowledge:When applying for a full-time role in legal services at Herrington Carmichael LLP, 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 Herrington Carmichael LLP and the specific role of Legal Secretary - Private Wealth and Inheritance. 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 Herrington Carmichael LLP’s culture!
How to prepare for a job interview at Herrington Carmichael LLP
✨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 Herrington Carmichael LLP.
✨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 Herrington Carmichael LLP.