Overview
Legal Secretary – Private Client
Location: Basingstoke Job Type: Full-time Salary: Up to £30,000 (Depending on Experience)
We are seeking a dedicated Private Client Legal Secretary to join our busy and personable Private Client team. This role provides comprehensive support to Fee Earners across a range of matters involving Wills, Probate, Estate Administration, Trusts, Lasting Powers of Attorney, and general private client work. The ideal candidate will have experience within a legal setting—preferably Private Client—and demonstrate strong administrative, organisational, and client care skills.
Responsibilities
Day-to-day of the role:
File Opening and Initial Client Support
* Take initial instructions and assist with providing costs information and engagement letters.
* Open new client files and obtain required ID and compliance documentation.
* Prepare initial drafts of Wills, LPAs, or probate paperwork as directed by Fee Earners.
* Manage and maintain accurate client records in line with internal policies and regulatory requirements.
Document Production & Case Progression
* Type and format legal documents including Wills, LPAs, probate forms (IHT205, IHT400), estate accounts, and trust documentation.
* Prepare engrossments and arrange signing appointments with clients.
* Submit LPA applications online or via postal service and track progress.
* Assist Fee Earners with HMCTS probate applications and management of estate administration tasks.
Client Liaison & Communication
* Act as a first point of contact for clients, offering friendly, professional support via phone, email, and in person.
* Liaise with third parties such as banks, financial advisers, HMRC, the Probate Registry, and the Office of the Public Guardian.
* Provide updates to clients on case progress, ensuring excellent service at all times.
Post-Completion and File Management
* Finalise completed matters including arranging for documents to be stored securely and wills to be added to the firm’s Will Register.
* Prepare closing letters, distribute certified documents, and ensure all outstanding matters are completed.
* Organise file archiving in line with the firm’s retention policies.
Other Duties
* Provide general administrative support to Fee Earners, including diary management, audio typing, and file maintenance.
* Use all office systems and software effectively after appropriate training; experience with LEAP or similar case management systems is advantageous.
* Provide cross-departmental support where required, including occasional cover on reception, switchboard, and post duties.
Required Skills & Qualifications
* Proven administrative or secretarial experience in a legal environment.
* Experience supporting Private Client work—wills, probate, LPAs, or estate administration—is desirable.
* Strong organisational skills with the ability to prioritise and manage a busy workload.
* Proactive approach with excellent attention to detail.
* Strong interpersonal and communication skills both written and verbal.
* Confidence using case management systems; LEAP experience beneficial but not essential.
How to Apply
To apply for this Private Client Legal Secretary position, please submit your CV along with a cover letter detailing your relevant experience and your interest in this role.
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