Private Client Paralegal Legal Assistant

We are seeking an experienced and dedicated Legal Assistant to support our Private Client department. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in probate, LPA's and Wills, an understanding of the conveyancing process would be helpful. This is an in-office role where you will be working closely with our solicitors to assist in providing exceptional legal services to clients.

Key Responsibilities

Private Client Department:

• Support solicitors in probate matters, including the administration of estates, ensuring compliance with relevant procedures.
• Assist with the preparation and drafting of Wills, including simple and complex instructions.
• Prepare and process Lasting Powers of Attorney (LPAs) and advance directives.
• Correspond with clients and third parties, such as HMRC, banks, and financial institutions, in relation to probate and estate matters.
• Organise and assist with the registration of LPAs, Wills, and other related documents with the relevant authorities.
• Assist with the preparation of inheritance tax returns and estate accounts.

General Administrative Duties:

• Maintain accurate files and records, both paper and electronic, in compliance with firm policies and legal requirements.
• Provide excellent customer service by answering client queries and providing updates on case progress.
• Work alongside the fee earners and other support staff to ensure deadlines are met, and client expectations are managed effectively.
• Undertake general administrative tasks, including filing, photocopying, and drafting routine correspondence.
• attending meetings with clients, managing the diary and booking appointments.

Key Skills & Qualifications

Essential:

• Previous experience working as a Legal Assistant or in a similar role within a busy private client department.
• Experience in probate administration and handling related legal matters, such as Wills and LPAs.
• Good understanding of estate planning, inheritance tax, and trust matters.
• Ability to work under pressure, manage multiple cases simultaneously, and meet deadlines.
• Strong attention to detail and excellent organisational skills.
• Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, Outlook) and case management systems.
• Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal, with the ability to interact with clients, third parties, and colleagues professionally and effectively.
• Experience working within a busy, client-facing law firm environment.

Personal Attributes:

• Proactive: Able to take the initiative and work independently as well as part of a team.
• Client-Focused: Strong focus on delivering excellent client service and fostering good client relationships.
• Organised: Ability to manage multiple tasks efficiently, with good attention to detail and the ability to meet deadlines.
• Adaptable: Comfortable in a fast-paced, varied role with the flexibility to support both conveyancing and private client departments.

Why Work with Us:

• Competitive Salary: Based on experience and qualifications.
• Supportive Team Environment: Join a dynamic team that values collaboration, mutual support, and professional growth.
• In-office role: Enjoy the benefits of working in a close-knit office environment, where face-to-face interaction is key to our successful practice.

If you meet the qualifications and have a passion for delivering excellent legal services, we would love to hear from you.

Ability to commute/relocate: Watford WD17: reliably commute or plan to relocate before starting work (preferred)

Application question(s): Do you have 2 years Private Client experience

Experience: Private Client: 2 years (required)

Work authorisation: United Kingdom (required)

Work Location: In person