Law jobs are usually thought highly of as a career, and a secretary in a law firm has a very important job. The secretary in a law firm performs vital administrative tasks so that legal executives and solicitors can focus on their clients and developing cases. Offices can only run at their best capacity if the secretaries are doing a good job.

Although roles vary, telephone calls, filing, typing and client correspondence are all part of the daily routine. Overseeing lawyers calendars and booking appointments is also their job.

Sometimes the legal secretary will be required to accompany a solicitor in court to help keep accurate records. You will find yourself keeping notes at all sorts of meetings.

Salary expectations

Salaries for legal secretaries can vary greatly depending on your job description, qualifications and the size of the firm. The lower salary band would be between £10,000 and £15,000. £23,000 to £30,000 can be expected when you are working for a big firm and have gained some valuable experience.

The usual jobs associated with the role

Your job is to make sure the office admin side is running well. Important documents need to be filed in an organised fashion. Depending on the role you might also manage elements of the finances.

In some firms you may be required to take shifts at the front desk as a receptionist. When clients visit the firm their first impression will be formed at the front desk. You will have to be dressed well and behave like a professional.

Another vital skill is knowing good telephone etiquette. You will need to keep clients informed whenever there is a change in their case.

Many legal secretaries get great job satisfaction from their career.