Legal Assistant

Confidential; Emsworth; On-site; GBP 28,000 - 32,000; Full time

Job summary

Confidential in Emsworth seeks an experienced Legal Assistant to support a Private Client team specialising in Wills, Trusts & Probate. The role focuses on providing comprehensive administrative and secretarial support, ensuring smooth progression of matters and exceptional client service.

Responsibilities include opening new files, managing diaries, preparing documents, liaising with executors and third parties, and maintaining accurate case records while upholding strict confidentiality and

Qualifications

• Experience in a Private Client department (Wills/Probate).
• Strong organisation and ability to manage multiple priorities.
• Excellent written and verbal communication; client-focused.

Responsibilities

• Open and set up new client files in line with compliance.
• Provide administrative and secretarial support to the Wills, Trusts & Probate team.
• Prepare correspondence, documents and court paperwork accurately.
• Manage diaries, appointments and client communications.
• Assist with probate and estate administration, liaising with executors and third parties.
• Ensure confidentiality and regulatory compliance.

Skills

Organised

Attention to detail

Communication skills

Team player

Tools

Microsoft Office

Job description

Legal Assistant

Are you an experienced Legal Assistant looking to develop your career within a well-established and supportive Private Client team?

We are seeking a highly organised and proactive Legal Assistant to join our client based in Emsworth, supporting their specialist Wills, Trusts & Probate department. This is an excellent opportunity to join a busy and respected team, playing a key role in assisting clients with sensitive and important matters.

This position would suit a professional individual who thrives in a fast-paced legal environment, has exceptional attention to detail, and enjoys delivering outstanding client service.

The Role

Working closely with fee earners and solicitors within the Private Client department, you will provide comprehensive administrative and secretarial support to ensure matters progress efficiently and clients receive an exceptional level of service.

• Opening and setting up new client files in accordance with compliance procedures.
• Providing full administrative and secretarial support to the Wills, Trusts & Probate team.
• Preparing correspondence, legal documents, forms, and court paperwork accurately and efficiently.
• Managing diaries, appointments, meetings, and client communications.
• Assisting with probate and estate administration matters, including liaising with executors, beneficiaries, and third-party organisations.
• Chasing outstanding documentation and information from clients and external bodies, including HMRC, the Office of the Public Guardian, financial institutions, and other relevant organisations.
• Processing incoming and outgoing post, ensuring all correspondence is accurately recorded and actioned.
• Updating and maintaining client records through the firm's case management system.
• Supporting fee earners with file management from instruction through to completion and closure.
• Assisting with the preparation of Lasting Powers of Attorney, Wills, and Probate applications.
• Always ensuring confidentiality and compliance with legal and regulatory requirements.
• Undertaking general office and administrative duties as required.

About You

• Previous experience working as a Legal Assistant, Legal Secretary or Administrator within a Private Client department.
• Experience supporting matters relating to Wills, Probate, Estate Administration, Trusts, or Powers of Attorney.
• Strong organisational skills with the ability to manage multiple tasks and priorities effectively.
• Excellent attention to detail and a high level of accuracy.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• A professional, empathetic, and client-focused approach.
• Experience using case management systems and Microsoft Office packages.
• The ability to work both independently and collaboratively within a team.
• A proactive attitude with a willingness to learn and develop.

Working hours: Monday-Friday, 9:00am-17:00pm.

Salary: 28k-32k (DOE)