Senior Legal Administrative Secretary

Placements24; Cape Town; On-site; ZAR 420,000 - 620,000; Full time

Job summary

Placements24 is recruiting a Senior Legal Administrative Secretary for a prestigious law firm in Cape Town. The role supports senior lawyers with document management, client interactions, and court-compliant drafting.

The ideal candidate has 5+ years in a legal secretary role, strong English communication, meticulous attention to detail, and proficiency in MS Office and legal software. Cape Town experience is preferred, with a professional and confidential work environment.

Qualifications

• Minimum of 5 years of experience as a Legal Secretary or Legal Administrative Assistant.
• In-depth knowledge of legal terminology, procedures, and documentation.
• Proficiency in legal word processing software and standard office applications.
• Exceptional attention to detail and proofreading accuracy.
• Strong organizational and time management skills.
• Excellent written and verbal English communication.
• Discretion and ability to handle confidential information.
• Experience with legal databases and e-filing systems is advantageous.
• Familiarity with the Cape Town legal environment is desirable.

Responsibilities

• Provide comprehensive administrative support to senior legal professionals, including managing correspondence, scheduling appointments, and coordinating client meetings.
• Prepare, proofread, and finalize legal documents, ensuring accuracy and adherence to court rules and firm standards.
• Manage filing systems (physical and digital) to ensure documents are organized, retrievable, and secure.
• Communicate professionally with clients, court officials, and other legal professionals.
• Coordinate travel arrangements for lawyers, including flights, accommodation, and itineraries.
• Assist with time entry and billing processes, ensuring accuracy and timeliness.
• Conduct legal research and gather relevant information as directed by the legal team.
• Maintain strict confidentiality regarding client information and sensitive legal matters.
• Manage office supplies and equipment for the legal department.
• Assist in preparing for trials and hearings, organizing exhibits and evidence.

Skills

Legal terminology

Document proofreading

Organization & time management

English communication

Discretion & confidentiality

Education

Legal Secretarial studies

Tools

Microsoft Office Suite

Legal word processing software

E-filing systems

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a prestigious law firm located in the vibrant business district of Cape Town , seeks a highly competent and detail-oriented Senior Legal Administrative Secretary. This role is crucial for supporting a team of senior lawyers and ensuring the efficient operation of the legal practice. The successful candidate will possess extensive experience in legal terminology, document management, and client interaction within a legal setting. This is an excellent opportunity for a motivated professional to contribute to a respected institution in the Western Cape legal community, offering a stable and rewarding career path. We are looking for an individual who demonstrates professionalism, discretion, and a commitment to excellence in all aspects of their work.

Key Responsibilities

• Provide comprehensive administrative support to senior legal professionals, including managing correspondence, scheduling appointments, and coordinating client meetings.
• Prepare, proofread, and finalize legal documents, such as pleadings, contracts, affidavits, and correspondence, ensuring accuracy and adherence to court rules and firm standards.
• Manage the filing system, both physical and digital, ensuring all documents are organized, retrievable, and maintained securely.
• Communicate professionally with clients, court officials, and other legal professionals, handling inquiries with tact and efficiency.
• Coordinate travel arrangements for lawyers, including flights, accommodation, and itinerary planning.
• Assist with time entry and billing processes, ensuring accuracy and timeliness.
• Conduct legal research and gather relevant information as directed by the legal team.
• Maintain strict confidentiality regarding client information and sensitive legal matters.
• Manage office supplies and equipment for the legal department.
• Assist in preparing for trials and hearings, organizing exhibits and evidence.

Requirements

• Minimum of 5 years of experience as a Legal Secretary or Legal Administrative Assistant, preferably within a corporate law firm.
• In-depth knowledge of legal terminology, procedures, and documentation.
• Proficiency in legal word processing software and standard office applications (Microsoft Office Suite).
• Exceptional attention to detail and accuracy in document preparation and proofreading.
• Excellent organizational and time management skills, with the ability to manage multiple tasks simultaneously.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills in English.
• Discretion and ability to handle confidential information appropriately.
• Experience with legal databases and e-filing systems is advantageous.
• A recognized qualification in Legal Secretarial studies or equivalent experience.
• Familiarity with the legal environment in Cape Town is desirable.

Benefits

• Our client offers a competitive salary package, professional development opportunities, and a supportive work environment.
• Benefits include medical aid contributions, a provident fund, and ample paid time off.

This role presents a significant opportunity for career growth within a reputable firm in Cape Town , Western Cape .