Job Title: Legal Assistant
Location: Kingsbridge
Reports to: Head of Private Client
Salary: £24,479
Hours of Work: Full-time, 35 hours per week
Contract Type: Permanent
Overview
Windeatts Solicitors are seeking a Legal Assistant to support our Private Client team. The successful candidate will assist with the smooth running of the department by providing comprehensive administrative and legal support. This role does not involve managing an individual caseload but will require a good understanding of private client procedures and documentation.
The position will involve supporting matters such as wills, probate, estate administration, lasting powers of attorney, and trusts, while delivering a professional and compassionate service to clients.
Key Responsibilities
- Provide day-to-day administrative support to the Private Client Solicitor(s), including file management, document preparation, and correspondence.
- Draft, format, and proofread legal documents, letters, and forms, including wills, probate documentation, and powers of attorney.
- Manage incoming and outgoing post, emails, and telephone calls professionally and efficiently.
- Maintain accurate and up-to-date client files in both digital and paper form.
- Liaise with clients, beneficiaries, executors, financial institutions, HMRC, and other third parties as required.
- Assist with probate applications, estate accounts, and general administration of estates.
- Prepare documentation for client meetings and appointments.
- Schedule appointments, manage diaries, and organise meetings.
- Ensure compliance with firm procedures, confidentiality requirements, and data protection obligations.
- Any other duties as assigned by the Partners.
Skills and Experience Required
- Previous experience working for a solicitor, ideally within a private client department (desirable).
- Good understanding of private client processes, including wills and probate.
- Excellent organisational and time management skills, with the ability to prioritise tasks and meet deadlines.
- Strong written and verbal communication skills, with high attention to detail.
- Proficient in Microsoft Office 365 (Word, Excel, Outlook, and Teams).
- Experience using LEAP case management software is desirable.
- A proactive, professional, and reliable team player with a positive and empathetic approach.
Personal Attributes
- High level of integrity and discretion when handling confidential and sensitive information.
- A calm, patient, and client-focused manner, particularly when dealing with vulnerable clients.
- Strong interpersonal skills and the ability to build positive working relationships.
- Willingness to learn and adapt within a busy private client environment.
What We Offer
- Company pension scheme
- Employee Assistance Programme (EAP) – 24/7 confidential support
- Ongoing professional development and training opportunities
- Generous holiday allowance
- Free or subsidised parking (location dependent)
- A genuine commitment to work-life balance and wellbeing.
About You
We’re looking for someone with:
- High level of integrity and discretion when handling confidential information.
- Strong interpersonal skills and a client-focused approach.
- Willingness to learn and adapt to changing priorities within a busy legal environment.
- Knowledge of relevant law and court procedures.
- Excellent communication and client care skills.
- Confident use of Microsoft Office, IT and legal case management systems.
- A proactive, flexible, and team-oriented mindset.
Join Us
Whether you’re looking for a new challenge, a better work-life balance, or a supportive environment to grow your career, we’d love to hear from you. Our team is friendly, down-to-earth, and passionate about delivering the very best for our clients.
For a copy of the job description or if you would like an informal chat then please contact Ruth Lerew, HR & Operations Manager on 01803 862233.
To apply, please send your CV and covering letter to [email protected]
STRICTLY NO APPLICATIONS FROM AGENCIES
Inclusion and Diversity are paramount to us here at Windeatts LLP. All our applicants and colleagues are treated fairly and respectfully, regardless of any protected characteristic/s. If you require assistance with regards to reasonable adjustments during your application process, please do not hesitate to contact us – we are always happy to help.
Job Types: Full-time, Permanent
Pay: £24,479.00 per year
Benefits:
- Additional leave
- Company pension
- Flexitime
- Health & wellbeing programme
- On-site parking
- Sick pay
- Work from home
Work Location: In person
