Introduction
About us
We’re Swinburne Maddison, a modern law firm rooted in traditional values like trust, care, collaboration, and agility. These principles have guided us for over 25 years, and they remain at our core. As an award-winning firm, we proudly build on our rich heritage while adapting to the evolving needs of our clients. We’re committed to doing things the right way, putting people first and delivering exceptional service.
Life at Swinburne Maddison is all about growth, opportunity, and being surrounded by great people. We believe in pushing boundaries, fostering talent, and creating an environment where people thrive. In 2025, we were named Law Firm of the Year at the Northern Law Awards, with four teams ranked Tier One in The Legal 500 and 22 lawyers individually recognised.
Our team is known for outstanding client care and technical excellence. With STEP-qualified lawyers and a people-first approach, we help clients plan for the future with clarity and reassurance.
The role
We are seeking an experienced, highly organised and detail-oriented Legal Assistant to join our
dynamic team.
The ideal candidate will possess excellent skills in Word, Outlook, and Excel, and will be
responsible for preparing correspondence and documents via word processing.
Key responsibilities include administering filing systems, preparing mail and enclosures for
dispatch, using DocuSign and other digital signature systems, dictation and typing letters and
ensuring all scanning and copying tasks are completed efficiently.
The successful candidate will also process incoming telephone calls, make appointments and maintain an up-to-date diary for their principals.
The Legal Assistant will attend to clients both in person and on the telephone, providing professional and friendly support in line with the firm's standards for client care. They will undertake specific training as required and take responsibility for their self-development. Compliance with all firm policies and procedures is essential to ensure the firm's aims are met.
The role also includes providing support to other Legal Assistants as needed. If you are a proactive individual with a commitment to excellence and a passion for client care, we encourage you to apply for this exciting opportunity.
Required experience, skills and attributes
The main attributes we look for, but will not be limited to, are:
- Previous secretarial or legal experience
- Previous experience in Private Client (Desirable)
- Good communication skills, both written and spoken.
- Sound organisational and interpersonal skills.
- Time management skills.
- Ability to work under pressure and meet deadlines.
- Ability to work independently.
- Attention to detail.
- Aptitude for working with computers.
- Ability to act with professionalism and courtesy to all clients, third parties and staff.
- Ability to act with tact and discretion, maintaining confidentiality of all the firm’s and clients’ documentation and information.
Closing Date
Friday 18 September 2026
Employee benefits
We care about our people. When you join Swinburne Maddison, you’re not just stepping into a job - you’re joining a team that genuinely wants you to enjoy your work, build your career and feel supported along the way.
Here’s what you can expect when you join us:
- Hybrid working options after three months (work-life balance matters!)
- Flexible working options for the days where you may need some extra time
- A competitive salary tailored to your experience
- Clear career progression with a published professional development plan
- Generous holiday allowance plus the option to buy extra days
- Pension salary sacrifice scheme to help your money go further
- Health cashback plan to claim back the cost of everyday healthcare
- Perkbox membership – packed with discounts, freebies, and wellness perks
- Enhanced family leave to support you through life’s important moments
- Death in service benefit for peace of mind
- A friendly, down-to-earth team that really values collaboration and support
- Collaborative working in a flexible and forward-thinking environment
- Free car parking – subject to availability
Legal Assistant (Private Client) in Durham employer: Swinburne Maddison
At Swinburne Maddison, we pride ourselves on being a top-tier corporate law firm that not only values excellence in legal practice but also prioritises the growth and well-being of our employees. With a strong focus on collaboration and support, we offer a competitive salary, hybrid working options, and clear career progression opportunities, all within a friendly and dynamic environment. Join us to be part of a team that is committed to pushing boundaries and fostering talent while delivering exceptional service to our diverse range of clients.
