Job Description
Residential Property Legal Assistant
* Location: Portsmouth
* Job Type: Full-time
* Salary: Dependant on experience
We are seeking a dedicated Legal Secretary/Assistant to join our team, committed to delivering exceptional service to every client, every time. This role requires a professional, client-first approach and a high degree of self-management and initiative. You will work primarily with a Residential Property Lawyer, supporting the delivery of client services including sales, purchases, remortgages, and transfers of equity.
Day-to-day of the role:
* Manage client work effectively and efficiently as allocated, in accordance with company procedures and quality standards.
* Maintain regular communication with clients, handling enquiries with empathy and professionalism.
* Assist in the preparation and drafting of legal documents under supervision, including Contracts, Transfers, and related correspondence.
* Facilitate client onboarding processes, including issuing Letters of Engagement, Terms of Business, Privacy Notices, and managing ID and source of funds verification.
* Attend client meetings, providing administrative and practical support.
* Open, maintain, and organise client files using the DPS case management system, ensuring compliance with all relevant regulations and internal policies.
* Draft attendance notes and client communications, ensuring accurate and professional record-keeping.
* Communicate effectively with third parties such as HM Land Registry, banks, estate agents, mortgage brokers, and search providers.
* Monitor deadlines and matter progression to ensure service delivery meets client and regulatory expectations.
* Contribute to maintaining an efficient, paper-lite, and compliant office environment.
Required Skills & Qualifications:
* Minimum of 1 year of previous legal experience in a comparable role.
* Proficient in using DPS case management system or similar.
* Strong organisational skills with the ability to manage multiple tasks and meet deadlines.
* Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal.
* Demonstrated ability to handle client interactions with empathy and professionalism.
* Knowledge of Solicitors Regulation Authority rules, GDPR, Anti-Money Laundering obligations, and internal compliance policies.
Values & Behaviours:
* Passion for delivering excellent client service.
* Effective relationship-building skills, with a focus on understanding and meeting client needs.
* Proactive in seeking feedback and identifying improvement opportunities.
* Committed to lifelong learning and innovation, actively engaging in development activities.
* Promotes a positive, people-centric culture, respecting diversity and operating with integrity.
* Understands the bigger picture, aligning actions with team and organisational goals.
To apply for the Legal Secretary/Assistant position, please submit your CV and cover letter detailing your relevant experience and why you are interested in this role.