At a Glance
- Tasks: Support private client legal work and assist with estate administration.
- Company: Reputable wealth management firm in Surrey with a family-oriented approach.
- Benefits: Flexible part-time hours, hybrid working, and a stable professional environment.
- Why this job: Make a meaningful impact by helping clients navigate important legal matters.
- Qualifications: Experience in private client law and strong organisational skills required.
- Other info: Join a growing team dedicated to providing high-quality service.
The predicted salary is between 24000 - 36000 £ 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
Legal Assistant in Surrey employer: JMC Legal Recruitment
Contact Detail:
JMC Legal Recruitment Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Legal Assistant in Surrey
✨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 planning 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 complex cases in the past. It’s all about demonstrating your attention to detail!
✨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 are proactive about their job search.
We think you need these skills to ace Legal Assistant in Surrey
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV is tailored to the Legal Assistant role. Highlight your experience in private client legal work and any specific skills related to estate administration and probate. We want to see how your background fits with what we do!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you’re passionate about supporting clients in estate planning and how your previous roles have prepared you for this position. Let us know why you want to join our team!
Showcase Your Communication Skills: As a Legal Assistant, you'll be liaising with clients and third parties regularly. Make sure your application reflects your strong communication skills. We love candidates who can convey complex information clearly and empathetically!
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply through our website for a smoother process. It helps us keep track of applications and ensures you don’t miss out on any important updates. Plus, it shows you’re keen to join us 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 genuine interest in the role.
✨Showcase Your Empathy
Given the sensitive nature of the work, it's crucial to convey your calm and empathetic approach during the interview. Prepare examples from your past experiences where you've successfully supported clients or families in difficult situations, highlighting your ability to handle emotional conversations with care.
✨Ask Insightful Questions
Prepare thoughtful questions about the firm's approach to client relationships and how they maintain their family office-style service. This shows that you're not just interested in the job, but also in how you can contribute to their unique client experience.
✨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 for case management, as this will reassure them of your ability to deliver a detail-driven service.