Private Client Legal Assistant in Essex

Private Client Legal Assistant | Chelmsford or Benfleet | Full Time | £28,000£30,000 per annum Our client is seeking a Private Client Legal Assistant to support their fee earners within the Private Client team, covering wills, lasting powers of attorney (LPAs) and probate/estate administration. The Role You will support fee earners with the day-to-day running of a busy caseload, handling client contact, preparing documents, progressing files and ensuring matters are dealt with efficiently. The role involves providing a professional and sympathetic service to clients, many of whom may be elderly, vulnerable or recently bereaved. Key Responsibilities Support fee earners with the day-to-day management of a large caseload Handle new client enquiries, take initial details and arrange appointments Open and close files, carry out conflict and AML/ID checks, and issue client care documents in line with firm procedures Manage incoming and outgoing calls, emails and post, and keep clients updated on progress Maintain accurate case management records, diaries and time recording Arrange will signings and witnessing and ensure correct execution Arrange safe storage of original wills and maintain the register of stored documents Submit applications to the Office of the Public Guardian (OPG), track registration and correct any rejections or queries Assist with Court of Protection applications, deputyship paperwork and enduring power of attorney (EPA) registrations, as required Assist with obtaining grants of probate and letters of administration, including preparing oath and application documents for the Probate Registry Write to banks, building societies, pension providers and other institutions to identify and collect assets, and obtain date-of-death valuations Assist with inheritance tax forms and HMRC correspondence, and with property valuations and Land Registry matters Place statutory notices, deal with creditor and beneficiary queries, and settle liabilities Prepare estate accounts, distribution schedules and completion paperwork for fee earner approval Keep executors and beneficiaries informed and handle sensitive communications with care Follow SRA regulations, AML, data protection and client-money procedures, and the firm's quality standards Identify and escalate any concerns about capacity, undue influence, vulnerability or fraud Requirements Essential Previous experience as a legal assistant, paralegal or legal secretary in a private client, wills and probate or estate administration team, typically 12+ months Working knowledge of wills, LPAs and the estate administration process Excellent written and verbal communication skills, and a professional, empathetic telephone and client manner Strong organisation and attention to detail, with the ability to manage a large volume of files and deadlines Proficiency in Microsoft Office and case management/legal accounting systems Ability to work as part of a team and on your own initiative Sensitive and compassionate when dealing with elderly, vulnerable or bereaved clients Discreet and trustworthy, with a strong sense of confidentiality Accurate, methodical and proactive in progressing files Keen to learn and develop within the private client team Highly proficient with technology and AI systems Desirable Legal qualification or study towards one, such as a law degree, LPC/SQE or CILEX Experience with the HMCTS Court Portals Experience of the OPG and Probate Registry online systems Knowledge of inheritance tax Experience with legal software such as LEAP or similar Whats next? Its easy! Click APPLY now! We cant wait to hear from you! Your data will be handled in line with GDPR. TPBN1_UKTJ