At a Glance
- Tasks: Prepare legal documents, manage client files, and provide top-notch support to legal professionals.
- Company: Join one of Surrey's largest legal practices with a supportive team culture.
- Benefits: Enjoy 25 days holiday, annual bonuses, and flexible working options.
- Other info: Great opportunities for professional development and a vibrant work environment.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in clients' lives while advancing your legal career.
- Qualifications: Experience as a Legal Secretary in Private Client law and strong IT skills.
The predicted salary is between 28000 - 32000 £ per year.
A great opportunity for an experienced Legal Secretary to join one of the largest legal practices in Surrey. Based in Guildford, £28,000 - £32,000 salary (DOE), 25 days holiday + bank holidays, Monday - Friday, 37 hours per week. Could potentially work from home.
Job Description:
- Prepare letters, legal documents, and other correspondence using audio typing and word processing, ensuring high standards of presentation.
- Handle daily filing tasks, including the opening, closing, storage, and retrieval of client files in line with firm procedures.
- Organise outgoing mail and enclosures for dispatch.
- Carry out photocopying tasks, personally if no assistant is available.
- Schedule appointments, arrange meetings, and maintain an up-to-date diary for your principal.
- Prepare and tidy the conference room for meetings and provide refreshments when required.
- Welcome and assist clients both in person and by phone, delivering professional, friendly service aligned with the firm’s client care standards.
- Assist other secretaries as needed and offer guidance to junior or temporary staff when required.
- Maintain strict confidentiality regarding client and firm information, and complete online forms and other administrative tasks as needed.
- Use the firm’s case management system effectively.
- Contribute to improvements in document quality and departmental efficiency.
- Take part in any necessary training and take personal responsibility for continued development.
- Carry out any additional duties as required by the firm from time to time.
Person Specification:
- Significant prior experience as a Legal Secretary, including at least one year within Private Client law.
- Familiarity with Practice Evolve or similar case management systems.
- Solid understanding of legal procedures and terminology.
- Intermediate to advanced IT proficiency, particularly in relevant software packages.
- Fast and accurate touch-typing skills.
- Keeps pace with the fee earner’s workload and ensures timely document production.
- Consistently demonstrates strong attention to detail and accuracy.
- Effectively manages priorities and meets occasional deadlines under pressure.
- Proactive approach to work and willing to take on additional tasks as required.
- Communicates professionally with clients both in person and by phone.
- Offers high-quality customer service, with sensitivity to the needs of vulnerable or distressed clients.
- Progresses client matters efficiently with appropriate supervision.
- A cooperative team player with strong interpersonal skills.
- Positive, committed, and genuinely interested in legal work.
- Maintains good attendance and a consistent, can-do attitude.
- Willing to support fee earners and the wider team as needed.
Benefits:
- 25 days holiday + Bank Holidays
- Annual salary review
- Annual bonus scheme
- Pension contribution
- Death in Service benefit of 4 x salary
- Interest free season ticket loan
- Paid professional memberships
- Long service rewards
- Private medical cover
- Company sick pay
- Cycle to Work scheme
- Employee Assistance Programme
- Health and Wellbeing initiatives
- Regular socials
- Enhanced maternity/paternity leave, shared parental leave and adoption benefits
- Flexible/hybrid working
- Sabbaticals
- Study Leave
Refer a friend and earn £100! If you have a friend who is also searching for a new opportunity in the local area, recommend Optima and if we place them (providing they complete their 3-month probation period), you will receive a £100 retail voucher of your choice!
Please note that if you have not been contacted within 5 working days, then unfortunately on this occasion your CV has not been shortlisted.
Senior Legal Secretary (Private Client) in Guildford employer: Optima Recruitment
Optima Recruitment is an excellent employer, offering a dynamic work environment in Epsom where teamwork and customer satisfaction are at the forefront. Employees benefit from competitive salaries, overtime opportunities, and a comprehensive holiday and pension scheme, all while enjoying a culture that promotes hands-on experience and professional growth in the installation sector.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior Legal Secretary (Private Client) in Guildford
✨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 Optima Recruitment, 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 Senior Legal Secretary (Private Client) in Guildford
Some tips for your application 🫡
Highlight Your Legal Knowledge:When applying for a full-time role in legal services at Optima Recruitment, 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 Optima Recruitment and the specific role of Senior Legal Secretary (Private Client). 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 Optima Recruitment’s culture!
How to prepare for a job interview at Optima Recruitment
✨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 Optima Recruitment.
✨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 Optima Recruitment.
