Practice Assistant

Owen Reed; Greater London; Hybrid; GBP 30,000 - 40,000; Full time

Job summary

Owen Reed is seeking a dedicated Practice Assistant for a well-respected law firm in London. In this full-time office-based or potentially hybrid role, the Practice Assistant will provide essential organizational, administrative, and client support to Fee Earners.

This position requires strong secretarial skills, proficiency in Microsoft Office and legal support experience, particularly in Commercial Real Estate. Prioritization and attention to detail are critical, ensuring that high-quality service is delivered to clients.

Qualifications

• Previous secretarial or legal support experience within a law firm is essential.
• Experience in Commercial Real Estate is essential.
• Strong organisational and time management skills.
• Excellent attention to detail and accuracy.

Responsibilities

• Provide proactive diary management for Fee Earners.
• Act as a first point of contact for Fee Earners.
• Produce high-quality documents in line with house style.
• Maintain strong proficiency in Microsoft Office.

Skills

Secretarial or legal support experience

Commercial Real Estate

Rural Property knowledge

Organisational skills

Attention to detail

Communication skills

Time management

Microsoft Office proficiency

Job description

Owen Reed is looking for a Practice Assistant for a top law firm in London.

Working Arrangement: Full-time, office-based (or hybrid depending on team requirements).

The Opportunity

An excellent opportunity has arisen for a Practice Assistant to join a highly respected law firm in London. This Practice Assistant role sits within a busy legal practice area and provides essential organisational, administrative and client support to Fee Earners.

Key Responsibilities

• Organisational Support

  Provide proactive and effective diary management for Fee Earners.

  Plan ahead based on workload awareness and priorities.

  Complete applications, forms and searches with minimal supervision.

  Maintain strong knowledge of departmental systems and processes.

• Client Relationship & Business Development

  Act as a first point of contact for Fee Earners.

  Deliver high-quality service to internal and external clients.

  Support marketing and business development activities.

  Record client meetings and business development activity in the CRM system.

  Maintain strict client confidentiality at all times.

• Document Production

  Produce high-quality documents in line with house style.

  Format, amend and proofread legal documents with accuracy.

  Create documents using firm templates and CRM data where appropriate.

  Ensure spelling, grammar and presentation meet high standards.

  Use the Document Management System effectively.

• IT & Systems

  Maintain strong proficiency in Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook).

  Use internal systems confidently to support daily work.

  Adapt quickly to new tools and technology.

• File & Matter Management

  Support proactive file management and ensure files are kept up to date.

  Close and archive files in line with firm procedures.

  Maintain accurate records for off-site storage and retrieval.

  Support Fee Earners with organised matter lifecycle management.

• Financial Risk & Compliance

  Prepare client bills as required by Fee Earners.

  Assist with AML documentation and client due diligence.

  Carry out conflict checks accurately and efficiently.

  Ensure compliance processes are followed correctly.

Skills & Experience

• Previous secretarial or legal support experience within a law firm (essential).
• Experience in Commercial Real Estate (essential).
• Exposure to Rural Property (desirable).
• Strong organisational and time management skills.
• Excellent attention to detail and accuracy.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
• Confidence managing multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment.
• High level of professionalism and discretion.
• Strong Microsoft Office and document management system skills.

Person Specification

• Aligns with firm values and demonstrates a professional approach.
• Has excellent timekeeping and strong prioritisation skills.
• Communicates clearly, positively and constructively.
• Works effectively as part of a team and supports colleagues when needed.
• Demonstrates flexibility, reliability and a proactive attitude.
• Shows commitment to learning and continuous development.
• Respects confidentiality at all times.
• Maintains a positive, friendly and client-focused approach.