Wills and Estates Legal Assistant

About the role

Our client, a highly regarded private client practice in Colchester, is seeking an experienced Wills and Estates Legal Assistant to support a senior solicitor and director. The role offers the chance to work within a well‑established team that delivers high‑quality services to private clients.

Key responsibilities

• Provide day‑to‑day administrative support to a senior solicitor and director with a busy caseload.
• Prepare, format and proof‑read legal documents such as wills, trusts, powers of attorney and estate‑planning paperwork.
• Manage the solicitor’s calendar, schedule meetings and handle client communications.
• Draft and process correspondence, emails and phone enquiries, acting as the first point of contact for clients.
• Assist with billing, time‑entry tracking and preparation of probate applications.
• Maintain case files in the management system, perform conflict checks and risk assessments.
• Conduct legal research as required.

Required profile

• Significant experience as a Legal Assistant or Legal Secretary within a Private Client, Wills and Estates environment.
• Strong organisational and time‑management abilities with a high level of discretion.
• Ability to work independently in a fast‑paced setting.

Required skills

• Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite.

What we offer

• Competitive salary and 22 days annual leave plus bank holidays.
• Additional 3 days off for the Christmas‑to‑New‑Year closure.
• Medical benefits scheme and Employee Assistance Programme after probation.
• Sick pay policy and staff pension scheme after probation.
• Friendly and social work environment.