At a Glance
- Tasks: Assist clients with legal inquiries and support the Private Client team in various administrative tasks.
- Company: Join Hodge Jones & Allen LLP, a leading law firm with a supportive culture.
- Benefits: Enjoy generous leave, wellbeing support, and a comprehensive benefits package.
- Other info: Dynamic workplace with opportunities for professional growth and a fun social atmosphere.
- Why this job: Make a difference by helping clients navigate their legal challenges in a rewarding environment.
- Qualifications: Legal qualifications and experience in client liaison and call handling are essential.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 40000 £ per year.
Hodge Jones & Allen LLP are looking to recruit a full time Legal Assistant to join our busy Private Client department.
Their primary responsibility will be to receive and screen calls from those seeking HJA's legal services in areas of law related to Private Client (Wills/Probate & Court of Protection Work), assisting the Court of Protection team with their professional deputyship work and professional trustee work inclusive of liaising with clients and stakeholders, and assisting the teams with various administrative tasks.
In dealing with incoming calls, the Legal Assistant will interact with clients in a sensitive and professional manner, utilising interviewing skills to assess how to best match clients with the appropriate resources within the firm or externally.
Duties And Key Responsibilities
- Receiving incoming calls and new enquiries promptly and within the timescales required
- Through careful listening and questioning, to gain insight into the clients' requirements and assist as far as possible e.g. take the enquiry details, forward a message, arrange an appointment, complaints procedure etc
- Providing information on legal procedures, costs, remedies and timescales to clients to resolve their legal problems in line with legal best practice and principles
- Maintain updated referral sources and provide relevant information to the departments
- Refer clients for appropriate legal assistance based on information gained
- Forward messages in a timely manner
- Demonstrate well developed investigation skills
- Demonstrate an ability to work effectively within a team and support team goals
- Make outgoing calls to clients as appropriate
- Deal with "walk in clients" in a speedy and professional manner
- Complete an accurate written attendance note of the call and ensure it is logged on the clients' electronic file using the appropriate IT systems e.g. Salesforce, and email the relevant fee earner(s)
- Maintain an orderly and efficient filing system within Salesforce and Word to ensure that all relevant documentation (paper and electronic) is readily accessible
- Liaise with fee earners as appropriate
- Provide a generic ‘one stop' approach, providing support across departments when required
- Any other duties within the scope and capability of the jobholder, as may be reasonably required
Requirements
- Relevant legal qualifications
- Experience working in a legal environment
- Experience liaising with clients
- Call handling experience
- Good administrative, literacy and time management skills
- Exemplary customer service skills
- Ability to discuss and understand complex legal situations with clients in a supportive and non-judgemental way
Benefits
We offer a competitive and comprehensive benefits package designed to support your well-being, work-life balance and professional development, including:
- Generous annual leave (22-27 days depending on role), plus Christmas shutdown and additional birthday leave
- Extra paid leave for volunteering, moving house and study
- Long service recognition leave at 10, 15 and 20 years
- Pension scheme (3% employer contribution, 5% employee, with salary sacrifice option)
- Life assurance (2x salary) and Group Income Protection (up to state pension age)
- Enhanced maternity and paternity pay (subject to qualifying service)
- Wellbeing support, including Mental Health Champions, First Aiders and an Employee Assistance Programme
- Cycle to Work scheme and season ticket loan (post-probation)
- Employee referral bonus scheme
- Discounted legal services and access to an extensive Employee Benefits Portal (gym membership, health plans, private medical insurance, dental, cinema and retail discounts)
- Eye care contributions
- Complimentary office fruit deliveries twice weekly
- On-site social space with pool table and subsidised bar
Private Client Legal Assistant employer: Hodge Jones & Allen
Hodge Jones & Allen is an exceptional employer located in the vibrant Greater London area, offering a dynamic work culture that prioritises employee wellbeing and professional growth. As a Costs Lawyer or Draftsperson, you will be part of a dedicated team where your contributions directly impact clients and the legal landscape, all while enjoying a competitive benefits package and generous leave policies that support a healthy work-life balance.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Private Client Legal Assistant
✨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 Hodge Jones & Allen, 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 Private Client Legal Assistant
Some tips for your application 🫡
Highlight Your Legal Knowledge:When applying for a full-time role in legal services at Hodge Jones & Allen, 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 Hodge Jones & Allen and the specific role of Private Client Legal Assistant. 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 Hodge Jones & Allen’s culture!
How to prepare for a job interview at Hodge Jones & Allen
✨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 Hodge Jones & Allen.
✨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 Hodge Jones & Allen.
