Conveyancing Assistant/Paralegal

Conveyancing Legal Assistant / ParalegalJob Title: Conveyancing Legal Assistant / Paralegal Location: Westcliff-on-Sea, Essex Department: Residential Property / Conveyancing Reports To: Conveyancing Solicitor / Head of Residential Property Salary: Competitive, dependent on experience Contract Type: Full-Time, Permanent About the RoleWe are seeking a motivated and detail-oriented Conveyancing Legal Assistant / Paralegal to join our busy Residential Property team in Westcliff-on-Sea. This is an excellent opportunity for an individual with conveyancing experience who is looking to develop their legal career within a supportive and well-established law firm. The successful candidate will play a key role in supporting fee earners with a broad range of residential property transactions, ensuring matters progress efficiently while delivering a high standard of client care. Key Responsibilities • Assist solicitors and conveyancers with the management of residential property transactions from instruction to completion. • Open and set up new client files and ensure all onboarding procedures are completed. • Carry out Anti-Money Laundering (AML) and identity verification checks. • Prepare and issue contract documentation. • Order and review property searches. • Draft routine legal documents and correspondence. • Liaise with clients, estate agents, mortgage lenders, brokers, developers, and other solicitors. • Keep clients informed of transaction progress and respond to enquiries in a professional and timely manner. • Assist with exchange of contracts and completion arrangements. • Prepare completion statements and assist with financial administration. • Submit SDLT returns and Land Registry applications where appropriate. • Manage post-completion matters and ensure files are closed correctly. • Maintain accurate records using the firm's case management system. • Ensure compliance with regulatory, lender, and internal procedures. Candidate RequirementsEssential • Previous experience as a Conveyancing Legal Assistant, Conveyancing Secretary, Property Assistant, or Conveyancing Paralegal. • Good understanding of the residential conveyancing process. • Strong organisational skills and attention to detail. • Excellent communication and client care skills. • Ability to manage a busy workload and prioritise tasks effectively. • Proficiency in Microsoft Office and legal case management systems. • Professional and proactive approach to work. Desirable • Law degree, CILEx qualification, LPC, SQE studies, or equivalent legal training. • Experience handling post-completion work, SDLT submissions, and Land Registry applications. • Experience working within a high-volume residential conveyancing department. • Ambition to progress into a fee-earning role in the future. Personal Attributes • Friendly, professional, and approachable manner. • Strong team player with the ability to work independently. • Excellent attention to detail and accuracy. • Positive and proactive attitude. • Strong problem-solving and organisational skills. • Commitment to delivering exceptional client service. • Ability to remain calm and effective under pressure. Benefits • Competitive salary based on experience. • Pension scheme. • Generous annual leave entitlement. • Ongoing training and career development opportunities. • Support towards professional qualifications where appropriate. • Clear progression opportunities within the firm. • Friendly and supportive working environment. • Modern office facilities in Westcliff-on-Sea. Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) • Timely progression of conveyancing transactions. • Accuracy of file management and documentation. • Compliance with AML and regulatory requirements. • Client satisfaction and communication standards. • Effective use of case management systems. • Contribution to departmental efficiency and service delivery. • Achievement of individual and team performance objectives. Ideal Candidate ProfileThe ideal candidate will have experience supporting residential conveyancing matters and possess excellent organisational and communication skills. They will be committed to delivering outstanding client service, capable of working in a fast-paced environment, and eager to develop their career within a successful and growing property team in Westcliff-on-Sea.