At a Glance
- Tasks: Provide secretarial support in Commercial Property and Corporate & Commercial Departments.
- Company: Join a modern law firm with a supportive team culture.
- Benefits: Free parking, agile working space, and training provided.
- Other info: Great location with easy access by road or train.
- Why this job: Kickstart your career in law with hands-on experience and professional development.
- Qualifications: No prior experience needed; just a willingness to learn and grow.
The predicted salary is between 25000 - 30000 £ per year.
In this role, you will provide direct secretarial support to the fee earners in our Commercial Property (including the specialist Land & Development Division) and Corporate & Commercial Departments.
THE DAY TO DAY:
- Typing e-mails, documents, letters, attendance and file notes via BigHand digital dictation, including occasional copy typing tasks.
- Raising invoices at the request and direction of fee earners.
- Drafting stamp duty land tax return forms, submitting applications to HM Land Registry at the direction of fee earners.
- Use of the Microsoft suite, BigHand, the firm’s case management system, FormEvo, and other software applications, including use of auto text and document templates.
- Filing, which will include daily filing (hardcopy and electronic) and the opening, closing, storage and retrieval of client files in accordance with the detailed procedures contained in the Office Manual.
- Preparing post and enclosures for despatch.
- Printing, copying, scanning, and faxing.
- Taking telephone enquiries.
- Ensuring case files are managed in accordance with the requirements of the Office Manual and using your initiative to ensure fee earner matters are kept in order.
- Attending clients both in person and on the telephone and to provide such support in a professional and friendly manner in keeping with the firm’s standards for client care.
- Ensuring the confidentiality of all the firm’s and clients’ documentation and information.
- Provide support to other secretaries/fee earners as required.
WHAT EXPERIENCE DO I NEED?
Prior secretarial or administrative experience is desirable, but not necessary. Training will be provided. We are open to applications from experienced Legal Secretaries/Administrators as well as Trainees with an interest in a support career in Law.
WHAT SKILLS SHOULD I HAVE?
- Willingness and ambition to learn and develop
- Excellent telephone manner and inter-personal skills.
- Team player.
- High level of computer literacy.
WHAT ARE WE OFFERING?
As well as joining a great Team, we offer a modern working environment at the firm’s regional head office, the A12 Commercial Hub, at Marks Tey, Colchester. The A12 commercial Hub offers colleagues free parking, agile working space, and easy access by road (being based on J25 of the A12) or train (500m from Marks Tey train station).
Legal Secretary/Administrator in Colchester employer: Holmes and Hills LLP
Holmes & Hills LLP is an excellent employer, offering a supportive work culture that values teamwork and professional growth. Located in the vibrant town of Colchester, employees benefit from a dynamic environment where they can enhance their conveyancing skills while contributing to meaningful Shared Ownership projects. With opportunities for career advancement and a commitment to employee well-being, this role promises a rewarding experience for those looking to make a difference in the property sector.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Legal Secretary/Administrator in Colchester
✨Join Local Law Societies
Get involved with local law societies in your area. These groups often host networking events, workshops, and panels that can provide insider insights and potential job leads. It’s a great way to meet professionals who can vouch for you!
✨Leverage University Resources
Swing by your uni’s career centre and see what they’ve got on offer for law students. They usually have connections with firms looking for trainees, and can help you polish your interview skills through mock interviews. Don’t forget to ask about any upcoming recruitment fairs!
✨Connect with Trainee Alumni
Reach out to past trainees from your network or alumni groups. They can offer invaluable advice on their experiences and might even point you to firms that are hiring. Plus, you never know when a friendly face could help your application stand out!
✨Submit Direct Applications through Our Website
Don't wait around for listings! If you’ve got your heart set on a certain firm like Holmes and Hills LLP, drop them a direct application through their website. Tailor your cover letter to reflect your passion for law and what you can bring to their team!
We think you need these skills to ace Legal Secretary/Administrator in Colchester
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Legal Acumen:Make sure your CV highlights your knowledge of legal principles and any relevant coursework. This is super important for a trainee role, so if you've got any practical experience like mooting competitions or internships, be sure to include those to show us what you've learned in practice!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Let us know why legal services excite you and detail your motivation for wanting to be a trainee with us at Holmes and Hills LLP. Share any unique experiences or insights you've had that relate to our work — we love to see passion!
Demonstrate Your Research Skills:As part of a legal team, strong research skills are key. If you've conducted any legal research during your studies or previous roles, mention specific cases or legal documents you've worked with. Including these details can set you apart from other candidates applying for your trainee spot.
Tailor Your Documents to Us:When applying through our website, make sure you're tailoring your CV and cover letter specifically for the role at Holmes and Hills LLP. Use our job posting as a guide to emphasize the skills and qualifications that align perfectly with the trainee position — it shows us you're keen and have done your homework!
How to prepare for a job interview at Holmes and Hills LLP
✨Know Your Legal Principles
Get ready to showcase your understanding of key legal concepts and principles relevant to the field. Brush up on areas like contract law or torts, as you might encounter some scenario-based questions during your interview. It’s not just about memorising; be prepared to discuss how you'd apply these principles in real-world situations, which will highlight your analytical skills.
✨Showcase Your Research Skills
In legal interviews, your ability to conduct thorough research is essential. Be prepared to discuss how you approach case studies or legal precedents. You might also be asked about tools like Westlaw or LexisNexis, so having some familiarity with these platforms can really set you apart.
✨Emphasise Your Enthusiasm for Learning
As a trainee, companies like Holmes and Hills LLP want to see your passion for the law and eagerness to learn. Bring up any relevant coursework, internships, or voluntary work during your studies. This shows that you're proactive and ready to embrace the challenges of the legal world.
✨Prepare for Behavioural Questions
Expect a few behavioural questions that probe your problem-solving and teamwork skills. Examples might relate to how you've handled conflict in a group project or dealt with tight deadlines. Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your responses clearly, making it easy for the interviewers to see your thought process.
