The Institute of Legal Secretaries and PAs
Dedicated to your career every step of the way
Legal Secretary Careers
The legal profession encompasses a variety of roles that put law into practice, including Judges, Barristers, Solicitors, Legal Executives, Paralegals, Legal Secretaries, and Personal Assistants. Among these, Legal Secretaries play a crucial role, providing essential support to lawyers and functioning as integral members of legal teams. Their contributions help ensure the smooth operation of legal services, making them vital to the success of law firms and legal departments.
To thrive as a competent and qualified Legal Secretary, we recommend enroling for ILSPA's Legal Secretary courses. These courses cater to a wide range of individuals—from beginners and experienced Legal Secretaries to law graduates. They are highly regarded in the legal industry and recognised by law firms and legal recruiters. Completing a course through us can significantly enhance your employability and professional skills.
To secure employment as a Legal Secretary, explore ILSPA's Legal Secretary Jobs Board. This platform features various job openings in the legal field, connecting you with potential employers who value your qualifications and skills.
Skills and Duties
A diverse array of skills is essential for a successful Legal Secretary, encompassing secretarial, administrative, legal, and IT competencies, along with a strong command of spoken and written English. Legal Secretaries have the opportunity to work not only in law firms but also in various legal settings, including Barristers' Chambers, Law Courts, the Police Service, and Local Authorities.
The responsibilities of a Legal Secretary can vary significantly due to the many different areas of law, such as conveyancing, probate, litigation, family law, and criminal law. Many Legal Secretaries find their careers both enjoyable and rewarding, as the work can be intellectually stimulating and dynamic. Typical duties include drafting legal documents, completing legal forms, typing professional correspondence from dictation, communicating with clients, and responding to enquiries, alongside a range of other important tasks.
Legal PAs serve as Personal Assistants to one or more people, providing a high standard of service to clients. They often act as the initial point of contact and may even make decisions on behalf of their bosses,
While their responsibilities can overlap with those of Legal Secretaries, Legal PAs typically handle a broader range of senior administrative tasks, including marketing, as well as managing accounts and budgets. They are responsible for coordinating personal schedules and calendars, organising events and engagements, and arranging travel. Legal PAs are highly valued and must demonstrate reliability and dedication in their roles.
Salaries and Career Prospects
Salaries for Legal Secretaries can vary widely based on experience, skills, the type of firm, and geographical location. In London, starting salaries for Legal Secretaries typically range from £20,000 to £45,000 per year. Generally, the more experience you gain in the field, the higher your earning potential.
The career prospects for Legal Secretaries are promising, with opportunities for advancement leading to higher positions and salaries as they gain experience. Legal Secretaries can progress to roles with greater responsibility or transition within the legal profession to become Paralegals or Legal Executives with the appropriate training. This role provides a solid foundation in law and legal procedures, allowing individuals to gain valuable hands-on experience that can propel their careers forward.
We empower our Students and Members to land their dream roles with personalised CV advice and expert employment guidance. Our dedicated team works closely with each Student to tailor their CV, highlighting their unique skills and experiences to stand out to potential employers. We also provide valuable insights into the job market and offer tips for successful interviews with our comprehensive support. Students and Members gain the confidence and tools they need to navigate their job search and secure fulfilling positions in the legal field. Let us help you take the next step in your career!
