Legal Assistant - Private Client

We are seeking a confident, proactive, flexible, enthusiastic, self-motivated and professional full-time Legal Assistant / Paralegal to provide support to our Private Client team based in Putney. We act for a broad range of clients in the preparation of wills, powers of attorney, creation of trusts and administration of estates (probate).

The successful candidate will assist the department on a variety of matters including:

• Preparation of wills
• Lasting powers of attorney
• Preparing inheritance tax forms
• Applications for probate
• Liaising with various organisations to progress probate applications
• Court of Protection applications
• Deputyship administration matters

The team has a strong reputation for cross border and international work. Fluency in a European language, especially French or Italian, would be a bonus, but is not a requirement. We have a wide client base including Family Offices, international clients and high net worth individuals. The work is varied and can be fast paced. Following on from this, there will be scope to progress and deal with more complex issues. Candidates need not have experience in Private Client work.

The Role

Fee earner undertaking chargeable work with a personal time and fee target. As with any fee earner, Legal Assistants will be expected to carry out non-chargeable work in addition to the chargeable work required. This may include, but is not limited to, providing assistance with marketing activities and undertaking appropriate training.

Legal Assistants will generally be expected to be self-supporting in terms of typing and administration and will have an hourly rate and fee target set accordingly, but where it is commercially justifiable they may be provided with appropriate administrative support.

The role requires excellent literacy, numeracy, accuracy and attention to detail, with excellent keyboard and IT skills. The Legal Assistant’s enthusiasm and energy are expected to allow them to make a full contribution to the dynamic operation of their team. They will take responsibility for their own success, seeking continuously to improve their own skills and to provide good value to clients in the legal services they provide. The Legal Assistant will operate under the supervision and responsibility of a designated solicitor within each department.

Legal Assistants should be prepared to participate fully in training and activities designed for Legal Assistants across the firm.

Personal Characteristics

Whilst the successful candidate will receive close supervision and support from experienced solicitors, they will be required to manage their workload autonomously. Strong organisational and time management skills are required, as the role will involve the efficient and cost-effective management of multiple files, working to strict deadlines. Excellent interpersonal and communications skills, especially telephone skills, are essential to demonstrate understanding of our clients’ needs and expectations and when communicating with colleagues. Focused attention to detail, speed and accuracy are important for all written documentation. The candidate should be a team player and contribute to the success of the team. The candidate will be a graduate, ideally with some academic legal qualification, or some practical legal training.

Salary And Benefits

We offer competitive salaries and generous benefits. We welcome direct applications. If you would like any further information about the firm please contact a member of the HR team. We have a diverse workforce and aim to attract high calibre applicants that reflect the demography of our geographical location and client base. Individuals will be employed solely on merit and the requirement of the position. No applicant or employee receives less favourable treatment on the grounds of sex, race, marital status, disability, age, sexual orientation, gender identity or religion. Reasonable adjustments will be made to eliminate or reduce disadvantage.