At a Glance
- Tasks: Support private client legal work and assist with estate administration.
- Company: Reputable wealth management firm in Surrey with a family office approach.
- Benefits: Flexible part-time hours, supportive environment, and high-quality client interactions.
- Why this job: Join a trusted team and make a difference in clients' lives with meaningful legal support.
- Qualifications: Experience in private client law and strong organisational skills.
- Other info: Enjoy a calm, professional atmosphere with opportunities for growth.
The predicted salary is between 24000 - 36000 ÂŁ per year.
Part-Time (3 days per week) | Hybrid | Surrey
The Company
An established and highly regarded wealth management and financial planning business based in Surrey is seeking an experienced Legal Assistant to support its private client and estate planning services. The firm advises approximately 500 private clients, primarily older and high-net-worth individuals and families, providing a joined‑up service across investments, financial planning, tax advice, estate planning, wills, trusts and probate. Many clients view the firm as a family office‑style adviser, relying on long‑term, trusted relationships rather than transactional support. The business is well established yet continuing to grow and invest in its professional services offering.
Your Role
This is a part‑time role (3 days per week) supporting the firm's private client legal work. You will work closely with the Private Client Solicitor and wider advisory team, playing a key role in delivering a high‑quality, detail‑driven service to clients. The role offers flexibility around working days and would suit an experienced legal assistant or probate secretary looking for part‑time hours in a stable, professional environment.
Key responsibilities include:
- Supporting estate administration matters from start to finish
- Liaising with banks, financial institutions and third parties
- Preparing and submitting Inheritance Tax (IHT) returns
- Managing applications and correspondence with the Probate Registry
- Preparing documentation for Powers of Attorney
- Assisting with wills drafting and amendments
- Maintaining accurate client files and case management records
- Acting as a professional point of contact for clients and their families
Candidate Profile
The successful candidate will have prior experience in private client legal work and be comfortable supporting probate and estate matters with minimal supervision. You will ideally have:
- Previous experience as a Legal Assistant / Legal Secretary within private client law
- Practical experience of estate administration and probate
- Familiarity with IHT returns and probate processes
- Experience liaising with banks and external institutions
- Confidence preparing documentation for wills and Powers of Attorney
- Strong organisational and communication skills
- A calm, empathetic approach when dealing with clients and bereaved families
Working Arrangements & Package
Part-time: 3 days per week (flexible choice of days)
Supportive, professional and low‑pressure working environment
High‑quality client work with long‑term relationships
Legal Assistant - Private Client employer: JMC Legal Recruitment
Contact Detail:
JMC Legal Recruitment Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Legal Assistant - Private Client
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the legal field, especially those who work with private clients. A friendly chat can lead to opportunities that aren’t even advertised yet.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by brushing up on your knowledge of estate administration and probate processes. We want you to feel confident discussing your experience and how it relates to the role.
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your organisational skills during interviews. Bring examples of how you've managed client files or handled sensitive information in the past. It’ll help us see how you can fit into our team.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, we love seeing candidates who take the initiative to connect directly with us.
We think you need these skills to ace Legal Assistant - Private Client
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV is tailored to the role of Legal Assistant. Highlight your experience in private client law and estate administration, as well as any relevant skills that match the job description. We want to see how you can bring value to our team!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you're passionate about supporting private clients and how your background makes you a great fit for our firm. Keep it professional but let your personality come through.
Showcase Your Communication Skills: As a Legal Assistant, you'll be liaising with clients and third parties regularly. Make sure your written application reflects your strong communication skills. Clear, concise language will show us you can handle the role's demands.
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 shows you’re keen on joining our team at StudySmarter!
How to prepare for a job interview at JMC Legal Recruitment
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of estate administration and probate processes. Familiarise yourself with Inheritance Tax returns and the documentation for Powers of Attorney. This will not only show your expertise but also demonstrate your commitment to the role.
✨Showcase Your Empathy
Since you'll be dealing with clients and their families, it's crucial to convey a calm and empathetic approach during the interview. Share examples from your past experiences where you've successfully supported clients in sensitive situations, highlighting your ability to build trusted relationships.
✨Ask Insightful Questions
Prepare thoughtful questions about the firm's approach to client relationships and how they support their private clients. This shows your genuine interest in the company and helps you understand if their values align with yours.
✨Demonstrate Organisational Skills
Be ready to discuss how you manage your workload and keep accurate client files. You might want to share specific tools or methods you use to stay organised, as this is key in a detail-driven role like this one.