Development Legal Assistant

Context Davies and Partners Solicitors is a well-established law firm with over 30 years’ experience. Ithas a national reputation for excellence in the Property sector and strength in depth in a wide selection of other legal services for businesses & individuals. There are 5 offices in London, Birmingham, Bristol, Gloucester and Devon. Reporting Line This role reports to the Head of Development based in the firm’s Gloucester office. Job Purpose To provide a full and efficient secretarial service within the department assisting the Development department as workloads require exercising confidentiality and client care at all times. Key Duties and Responsibilities The following tasks provide a general overview of the types of activity, the candidate will be expected to engage in or oversee on a day-to-day basis. The tasks are not intended to be an exhaustive list of responsibilities as all employees are required to be flexible, dynamic and have the capacity to think creatively when presented with challenges. • To carry out and be responsible for tasks given by the Development • Department • Use of DPS software (case management system) - training will be given, but a willingness and ability quickly to get to grips with new software is required. • Copy typing. • Typing of standard and non-standard letters, contracts and documents including running letters from a case management system. • Opening new files. • Ensuring electronic (on DPS) and hard copy files are kept tidy and up-to-date. • Closing and archiving files when matter is completed. Checking nil balance with Accounts and confirming destruction date with Fee Earner. • Photocopying and scanning of documents. • Receiving instructions from the client and inputting onto Case Management System. • Sending out contract information on plots. • Issuing draft documentation for part exchange properties. • Providing assistance to clients and external solicitors by giving up to date information as and when appropriate. • Identifying the urgency of phone calls and taking accurate written messages as necessary and ensuring messages are brought to the attention of the fee-earner. • Updating data bases and directories where appropriate. • Ensuring files are kept tidy and electronic filing is up-to-date. • Assisting in the progression of reservations to exchange of contracts, • Ensuring that relevant forms are received on part-exchange files, updating matters and notifying fee earner in charge accordingly; • Dealing with day-to-day correspondence from clients and Solicitors and passing on of messages as required; • Assisting in the preparation of completion forms and allocation of monies received and transmitted; • Assisting in the preparation of outgoing post. • To maintain a cordial and co-operative attitude to other members of the firm. • To provide cover within the department at times of holidays and sickness. • Any other “ad hoc” duties when required Your job title does not define or limit your duties and you may be required to carry out other work within your abilities from time to time at our request. We reserve the right to introduce changes in line with technological developments which may impact upon your job duties or methods of working. Location Davies and Partners Solicitors, Rowan House, Barnett Way, Barnwood, Gloucester GL4 3RT Salary Competitive Compliance As part of our compliance procedures, applicants are asked to note that: • references will be followed up; • all gaps in CVs must be explained satisfactorily; • proof of identity and (where applicable) qualifications will be required; • reference requests will ask specifically whether the applicant has ever been subject to any proceedings/complaints initiated by the Law Society or any other professional body. • appropriate suitability checks may be required prior to confirmation of appointment. Equal Opportunities Davies and Partners Solicitors provides equal employment opportunities (EEO) to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, colour, religion, gender, sexual orientation, national origin, age, disability, genetic information, marital status, amnesty, or status as a covered veteran in accordance with applicable national laws. Davies and Partners Solicitors complies with applicable national laws governing non-discrimination in employment in every location in which the company has facilities. Person Specification Essential Criteria Legal Status Appropriate DBS disclosure will be required prior to confirmation of appointment. Right to live and work in the UK, e.g. valid UK or EU passport or appropriate visa/work permits. Education/ Qualifications GCSE Level C or Grade 4 in Maths and English or above. Skills/Knowledge • Excellent accuracy and attention to detail • IT literacy – knowledge of Microsoft Word and Outlook. • Professional and polite manner on the telephone, taking accurate messages and following up on agreed action. • Ability to work well within a team and independently. • Excellent time management and prioritising skills. • Ability to cope under pressure. • Experience working in an Admin role in an office environment. Desirable Criteria • Relevant Secretarial or Administration Qualifications • Experience in Residential Conveyancing (Plot Sales preferred) REF-229 770