Legal Secretary

Reed; North East; On-site; GBP 28,000 - 36,000; Full time

Job summary

Reed in Durham is seeking a Legal Secretary to provide high-quality administrative support to the Private Client team. You will manage diaries, prepare legal documents, maintain records, and assist fee earners with Wills, Probate, LPAs, Trusts and Estate matters.

The role requires at least 12 months' experience in a Legal Secretary or similar position, strong Microsoft Office skills, and a professional, compassionate telephone manner. Full-time hours with a competitive salary.

Qualifications

• Minimum 12 months' experience in a Legal Secretary or similar support role.
• Previous experience within a Private Client department is desirable.
• Proficient in Microsoft Office and legal case management systems.
• Excellent organisational skills and attention to detail.
• Professional, compassionate and confident telephone manner.

Responsibilities

• Manage calendars, appointments, and key deadlines for fee earners.
• Welcome clients professionally and handle enquiries with discretion and empathy.
• Prepare Wills, Probate, LPAs and other Private Client documentation.
• Organise and maintain client files, estate administration paperwork and supporting documents.
• Carry out general administration duties including scanning, photocopying, filing, and handling post.
• Take accurate telephone messages and liaise with clients, beneficiaries, financial institutions, and third parties.
• Assist with billing, invoicing, and client account administration where required.
• Maintain accurate and up-to-date file notes and records.
• Obtain relevant documentation and complete administrative tasks to support ongoing matters.
• Provide support to colleagues and assist with departmental cover when needed.
• Ensure all outgoing correspondence and documents are approved by the supervising fee earner before sending.

Skills

Communication

Delivery

Self-Management

Customer Focus

Adaptability

Tools

Microsoft Office

Legal case management systems

Job description

Job Title: Legal Secretary
Location: Durham
Department: Private Client
Hours: Full-Time
Pay: Competitive

Role Purpose

To provide high-quality administrative and secretarial support to the Private Client team, ensuring the efficient progression of matters and delivery of excellent client care. This includes managing diaries, preparing legal documentation, maintaining accurate records, and assisting fee earners with Wills, Probate, Lasting Powers of Attorney, Trusts, and Estate Administration matters.

Key Responsibilities

• Manage calendars, appointments, and key deadlines for fee earners.
• Welcome clients professionally and handle enquiries with discretion and empathy.
• Prepare correspondence, attendance notes, Wills, LPAs, Probate applications, and other Private Client documentation.
• Organise and maintain client files, estate administration paperwork, and supporting documents.
• Carry out general administration duties including scanning, photocopying, filing, and handling post.
• Take accurate telephone messages and liaise with clients, beneficiaries, financial institutions, and third parties.
• Assist with billing, invoicing, and client account administration where required.
• Maintain accurate and up-to-date file notes and records.
• Obtain relevant documentation and complete administrative tasks to support ongoing matters.
• Provide support to colleagues and assist with departmental cover when needed.
• Ensure all outgoing correspondence and documents are approved by the supervising fee earner before sending.

Relationships

Reports to: Director(s)

Qualifications & Training

• Minimum 12 months' experience in a Legal Secretary or similar support role.
• Previous experience within a Private Client department is desirable.
• Proficient in Microsoft Office and legal case management systems.
• Excellent organisational skills and attention to detail.
• Professional, compassionate, and confident telephone manner.

Competencies

Communication: Clear, professional, and empathetic communication with clients and colleagues.

Delivery: Effectively manages workload while maintaining a high level of accuracy.

Self-Management: Works independently, uses initiative, and takes ownership of responsibilities.

Customer Focus: Provides exceptional client care, particularly when dealing with sensitive matters.

Adaptability: Responds positively to changing priorities and departmental needs.

Technical Skills

• Proficiency in Microsoft Office and legal case management systems.
• Strong typing and document production skills.
• Experience preparing and managing Private Client documentation, including Wills, Probate, and LPA paperwork.
• Excellent organisational and time management skills.

Behavioural Attributes

• Self-motivated and proactive.
• Maintains high levels of integrity, discretion, and professionalism.
• Committed to continuous learning and development.
• Calm, compassionate, and resilient when supporting clients through sensitive matters.