Legal Accounts Assistant

Lyons Bowe; Bristol; On-site; GBP 25,000 - 35,000; Full time

Job summary

A local legal firm is seeking a Legal Accounts Assistant to support their finance function. The role involves ensuring compliance with financial regulations, maintaining accurate records, and assisting with financial reports. Ideal candidates will have experience in legal finance (1–3 years), knowledge of Solicitors Accounts Rules, and proficiency in legal accounts software. This position also requires strong numerical skills, attention to detail, and effective communication abilities, making it a vital role in the firm's operations.

Qualifications

• Experience in an accounts or legal finance role (1–3 years).
• Knowledge of Solicitors Accounts Rules.
• Proficiency with legal accounts software.

Responsibilities

• Ensure compliance with Solicitors Accounts Rules and firm policies.
• Maintain accurate financial records.
• Respond to accounts related queries.
• Support month-end and year-end accounting processes.
• Prepare financial reports as requested.

Skills

Numerical skills

Analytical skills

Communication skills

Time-management skills

Problem-solving approach

Attention to detail

Education

AAT Qualification (or working towards one)

Tools

Legal accounts software (e.g. SOS)

Microsoft Excel

Job description

The Legal Accounts Assistant supports the finance function within the firm by ensuring accurate financial record‑keeping, compliance with regulatory requirements (such as Solicitors' Accounts Rules), and smooth processing of client and office transactions. Finance Transactions

Responsibilities

Compliance & Regulation

• Ensure all financial processes comply with Solicitors Accounts Rules and firm policies;
• Maintain up to date, accurate and auditable financial records;
• Assist with internal and external audits;

Accounts Administration

• Support month end and year end accounting processes;
• Manage Equal Spends, expenses and disbursements;
• Maintain accurate ledgers and journals;
• Check and prepare and upload property completion packs;
• Prepare financial reports as requested by management.

Client & Internal Support

• Respond to accounts related queries from fee earners, clients and 3rd parties;
• Liaise with banks, accountants and other external parties;
• Provide financial data to support case management and billing.

Technical Skills

• Strong numerical and analytical skills;
• High accuracy and attention to detail;
• Understanding of legal accounting principles (including SAR);
• Proficiency with legal accounts software (e.g. SOS);
• Proficiency in Microsoft Excel and accounting systems.

Soft Skills

• Good communication and time‑management skills;
• Ability to handle confidential information with discretion;
• Reliable and organized;
• Strong problem‑solving approach;
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team;
• Professional and client‑focused attitude.

Experience & Qualifications

• Experience in an accounts or legal finance role (typically 1–3 years);
• Knowledge of Solicitors Accounts Rules;
• AAT Qualification (or working towards one) is often preferred but not essential;
• Proficiency with legal accounts software (e.g. SOS).

About the Firm

Lyons Bowe is a local, high‑street solicitor established in 2014. Over the years we have developed state‑of‑the‑art technology that allows us to offer exceptional legal services across Residential Property, Private Client and Family while also providing that all‑important high‑street service to our local communities.