We are seeking an organised Legal Assistant - Property to join our client's dedicated team in Beaconsfield. The successful candidate will provide high-quality administrative and casework support to conveyancers and solicitors, ensuring efficient progression of residential property matters from client intake through to completion. You will deliver excellent client service, maintain accurate matter records and support compliance with firm and regulatory requirements.
Key responsibilities:
* Assist fee-earners with the day-to-day management of a residential conveyancing caseload, including sales, purchases, remortgages, transfers of equity and leasehold matters; progress matters in line with agreed timescales and firm procedures.
* Carry out client care and AML checks at intake; open, maintain and close client files in accordance with firm policies and SRA requirements to ensure matter records are audit-ready and compliant.
* Prepare, format and proofread conveyancing documentation including letters, contracts, transfer deeds, SDLT returns, completion statements and forms for registration at the Land Registry; ensure accuracy and consistency with firm precedents and templates.
* Order and review searches, collate title documents, assist with investigation of title and raise routine enquiries to help resolve straightforward issues; escalate complex title or legal issues to fee-earners promptly.
* Liaise with clients, estate agents, lenders, surveyors, local authorities and other third parties to obtain information, update on progress and manage expectations through clear and timely communication.
* Support completion processes and post-completion tasks including preparation of completion funds, sending completion statements, lodging documents at the Land Registry and assisting with registration and discharge of charges.
* Maintain accurate records of time and disbursements, assist with cost estimates and billing administration to support the commercial performance of the team.
* Use and maintain case management and document management systems by updating matter records, scanning and indexing documents and ensuring version control of precedents and templates.
* Contribute to team efficiency and continuous improvement by suggesting process improvements, adopting digital workflows and sharing best practice with colleagues.
Key skills and experience required:
* At least 6 months experience in a legal support role within residential conveyancing or property teams, or equivalent administrative experience in a legal services environment.
* Strong administrative and document production skills with excellent attention to detail and a high standard of written English; accurate proof-reading and formatting are essential.
* Familiarity with client care and AML procedures and an understanding of basic conveyancing processes including SDLT and Land Registry requirements; willingness to learn and develop technical knowledge.
* Proficiency with case management and document management systems and confident use of Microsoft Office.
* Good organisational skills with the ability to manage competing priorities, meet deadlines and work independently while escalating issues appropriately.
* Excellent interpersonal and communication skills with a professional telephone manner and the ability to build effective working relationships with clients, colleagues and third parties.