At a Glance
- Tasks: Support our Residential Property team and ensure clients receive top-notch service.
- Company: Join Howells, a fresh and client-focused legal firm with award-winning services.
- Benefits: Enjoy competitive salary, generous leave, gym discounts, and career growth opportunities.
- Other info: Participate in networking events and enjoy recognition for your hard work.
- Why this job: Be part of a dynamic team making a real difference in clients' lives.
- Qualifications: 2 years' experience in residential property support and excellent customer service skills.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 40000 £ per year.
At Howells, we combine a fresh and forward-thinking approach with a client-focused, local feel to deliver a range of award-winning, quality services. We are looking for an enthusiastic and engaged Legal Assistant to join our busy Residential Property team. This role will provide direct support to fee earners within the Residential Property Team, to enable them to operate at optimum efficiency, in addition to ensuring clients receive an excellent level of customer service throughout the transaction process.
What you'll be responsible for:
- Day to day interaction with new clients and updating clients / agents / solicitors where necessary.
- Taking client instructions, checking ID, source of funds, gift deposits, etc.
- Preparing draft documents and issuing sales contracts.
- Requesting mortgage redemption figures.
- Ordering searches.
- Replying to sales enquiries on both freehold / leasehold properties.
- Drafting transfer deeds.
- Dealing with exchange of contracts on sales and purchases.
- Ordering mortgage advances, undertaking pre completion searches.
- Setting up completions.
- Dealing with client enquiries and communicating with a variety of third parties.
- Adherence to AML, client care and compliance procedures.
- Providing full support to the conveyancing solicitors to enable them to operate efficiently.
- Preparing correspondence using our case management system.
- Administering filing systems which will include daily filing and the opening, closing, storage and retrieval of client files.
- Preparing mail and enclosures for dispatch.
What we're looking for:
- Minimum 2 years’ experience in a residential property support role.
- Friendly and helpful team player.
- Excellent customer service skills.
- Well organised with ability to prioritise workload.
- Ability to work accurately with a good attention to detail.
- Able to use Microsoft Office packages and good typing skills.
- Excellent listening and communication skills, both verbal and written.
- Familiar with dictation.
- Resilient and calm under pressure.
- Excellent keyboard and word processing skills.
- Possess high levels of speed and accuracy.
- Have a good telephone manner and be comfortable speaking with clients on the telephone.
- Highly organised, methodical, and adaptable.
What you'll receive:
- Competitive Salary
- Annual Leave: Enjoy a minimum of 23 days each holiday year, plus bank holidays and extra time off to unwind, including an additional personal day, a day off for your birthday, and a discretionary paid day during the Christmas break.
- Annual Leave Purchase Scheme: Option to buy up to 3 extra days of leave annually to support your work-life balance.
- Gym Discounts: Access discounted memberships to help you stay active and healthy.
- Growth & Development: We’re invested in your career with opportunities for learning and advancement.
- Milestone Recognition: Celebrate your dedication with recognition and awards for key milestones.
- Events: Take part in various networking, corporate, and charity events throughout the year.
- Refer a Friend Scheme: Get rewarded for referring talented friends and connections to join the team.
- Discounted Childcare: Benefit from an agreed discounted rate at a nearby nursery, helping to make childcare more affordable and convenient.
Legal Assistant - Residential Property (Permanent) in Swansea employer: Howells Solicitors
Howells is an exceptional employer that fosters a supportive and dynamic work environment, particularly within our Residential Property team. With a strong emphasis on employee growth and well-being, we offer competitive salaries, generous annual leave, and unique benefits such as gym discounts and discounted childcare, all while encouraging a collaborative culture that celebrates achievements and milestones.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Legal Assistant - Residential Property (Permanent) in Swansea
✨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 Howells Solicitors, 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 Legal Assistant - Residential Property (Permanent) in Swansea
Some tips for your application 🫡
Highlight Your Legal Knowledge:When applying for a full-time role in legal services at Howells Solicitors, 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 Howells Solicitors and the specific role of Legal Assistant - Residential Property (Permanent). 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 Howells Solicitors’s culture!
How to prepare for a job interview at Howells Solicitors
✨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 Howells Solicitors.
✨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 Howells Solicitors.