At a Glance
- Tasks: Assist in managing private client matters and support an Associate Solicitor.
- Company: Join a leading law firm with a friendly and supportive culture.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, 28 days holiday, flexible work environment, and wellbeing support.
- Other info: Great opportunities for career progression and personal development.
- Why this job: Kickstart your legal career in a dynamic team and make a real difference.
- Qualifications: Understanding of probate processes and experience with Private Client Case Management systems.
The predicted salary is between 25000 - 32000 £ per year.
Due to internal progression, we are looking to hire a Trainee Legal Assistant to work alongside an Associate Solicitor in our Witham office. The Private Client team are a very well established, large and friendly team based across our 7 regional offices. This role is an excellent opportunity for someone who has an understanding of Private Client from within a Law firm to progress their career further and work directly with a Fee Earner on Private Client matters.
The Day to Day:
- Ensuring all matters are initially set up and managed ongoingly in accordance with the requirements of the Office Manual and department practice and procedures including the completion of checklists for risk and file management purposes, client care and cost updates.
- Initial completion of probate case management system in accordance with the instructions of the fee earner in the estate and asset form and attendance note.
- Ongoing completion of data within Private Client Case Management System including asset information and beneficiary details.
- Appropriate filing whether physical or virtual of all documents and correspondence using the virtual black folder within PCMS or physical black folder.
- Drafting, originating and managing documentation including initial asset enquiries, collection of those assets or transfer and updating client and beneficiary.
- Proactively progressing matters and chasing for required information.
- Proactively updating the fee earner and seeking instruction from fee earner when appropriate.
- Ensuring all client outputs are checked by the fee earner.
- Proactively organising and attending (virtual or otherwise) bi-weekly meetings with the fee earner on each matter within their care.
- Drafting application for grant of representation (GOR) and internal Inheritance Tax check and following approval by fee earner ensuring documents are signed by the client and returned.
- Making the application for the GOR, diarising for chasing, and keeping the client up to date.
- Troubleshooting existing probate matters including outstanding asset collection and outstanding balances.
- Input of data on all required spreadsheets and H&H logs including but not limited to cost and probate spreadsheet and the strong room system.
WHAT EXPERIENCE DO I NEED?
- An awareness of probate process including up to date knowledge of probate registry requirements.
- Knowledge and experience using Private Client Case Management system.
- An understanding of the construction of Wills.
- An understanding of inheritance tax.
WHAT SKILLS SHOULD I HAVE?
- Must possess the ability to communicate effectively with individuals at all levels.
- Self-motivated, organised with the ability to prioritise and manage own workload.
- Ability to work effectively and efficiently under pressure.
- Highly organised.
- Proactive thinker.
- Team player.
WHAT ARE WE OFFERING?
- Competitive salary.
- A supportive, relaxed and flexible work environment in an experienced and growing team.
- 28 days holiday per year, plus bank holidays.
- Medicash cash back schemes after 1 years’ service.
- Life Insurance.
- EAP and various other physical and mental wellbeing support services including virtual GP access 24/7.
- Family friendly policies such as enhanced maternity and paternity pay plus, family events leave.
- Company sick pay.
- Cycle scheme.
About us
Holmes & Hills Solicitors is a large regional firm of solicitors with seven offices across Essex and Suffolk and over 200 legal professionals across a number of specialist departments. Holmes & Hills works in partnership with clients across East Anglia, including businesses, individuals, families and local authorities, to build long standing relationships, protect clients' interests and support clients' growth and development.
Working in partnership with businesses and individuals, Holmes & Hills' large team of legal experts work in partnership with individuals and organisations to provide them with truly proactive legal services through personal relationships. Acting as a trusted advisor to clients, we take the time to understand clients' needs and objectives before delivering practical advice through a personal and accessible approach.
Independently recognised as a leading law firm, Holmes & Hills Solicitors is independently recognised by The Legal 500 and Chambers & Partners - two independent directories of the UK’s top law firms - as being a leading supplier of legal services in the region. These accreditations give our clients the confidence that the legal advice and representation they receive from Holmes & Hills is some of the best available. Our clients range from established and growing businesses whose brands are recognised and sold around the world and local authorities across the region, through to families and first-time home buyers.
Trainee Legal Assistant - Private Client in Witham employer: Homes & Hills Solicitors
Holmes & Hills Solicitors is an excellent employer, offering a supportive and flexible work environment in their Witham office, where you can thrive as a Trainee Legal Assistant within a large and friendly Private Client team. With competitive salaries, generous holiday allowances, and a strong focus on employee wellbeing, including access to mental health support and family-friendly policies, the firm prioritises your professional growth and personal development while fostering a collaborative culture that values each team member's contributions.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Trainee Legal Assistant - Private Client in Witham
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the legal field, attend industry events, and don’t be shy about asking for informational interviews. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings or can put in a good word for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the firm and its culture. Familiarise yourself with their recent cases and values. This will not only help you answer questions but also show that you're genuinely interested in being part of their team.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your interview skills with friends or family. Mock interviews can help you get comfortable with common questions and refine your answers. Plus, it’s a great way to boost your confidence before the real deal!
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to follow up after your interviews! A quick thank-you email can leave a lasting impression and shows your enthusiasm for the role. And remember, apply through our website for the best chance at landing that Trainee Legal Assistant position!
We think you need these skills to ace Trainee Legal Assistant - Private Client in Witham
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Understanding of Private Client Work:Make sure to highlight any relevant experience or knowledge you have about the probate process and private client matters. We want to see that you understand what this role entails and how you can contribute to our team.
Tailor Your Application:Don’t just send a generic application! Take the time to tailor your CV and cover letter to reflect the specific skills and experiences mentioned in the job description. This shows us that you’re genuinely interested in the position.
Be Clear and Concise:When writing your application, keep it clear and to the point. Use straightforward language and avoid jargon unless it’s relevant. We appreciate a well-structured application that’s easy to read!
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it’s super easy to do!
How to prepare for a job interview at Homes & Hills Solicitors
✨Know Your Probate Basics
Before the interview, brush up on your understanding of the probate process and the requirements of the probate registry. Being able to discuss these topics confidently will show that you have a solid foundation for the Trainee Legal Assistant role.
✨Familiarise Yourself with Case Management Systems
Make sure you understand how Private Client Case Management systems work. If possible, try to get hands-on experience or at least read up on how they function. This knowledge will help you stand out as someone who is ready to hit the ground running.
✨Demonstrate Your Organisational Skills
During the interview, be prepared to share examples of how you've managed your workload in the past. Highlight your ability to prioritise tasks and stay organised, as these skills are crucial for success in this role.
✨Show Your Team Spirit
Since this role involves working closely with a fee earner and other team members, emphasise your teamwork skills. Share experiences where you've collaborated effectively, and express your enthusiasm for being part of a supportive and friendly team.
