LEGAL SKILLS

• Manage new enquiries, taking initial details and gathering relevant information in order to allocate to appropriate fee earner to take further
• Being a point of contact for existing clients, their family, support team or third parties involved in the matter
• Supporting the managing fee earner with, but not limited to:
• Care home visits
• Managing properties
• Managing utilities and household bills
• Preparing for tax returns
• Obtaining online quotes for products and services
• Processing client matter invoices generated internally and making arrangements to settle the same once approved
• Managing financial budgets and forecasts on behalf of a vulnerable person including, but not limited to making claims for welfare benefits and payment of liabilities
• Maintaining records for both electronic and paper files in order to ensure compliance with the Deputy Standards
• Preparation of all deputyship accounts for sign off by a Partner / COFA on a quarterly basis in accordance with the SRA Rules
• Keeping track of key dates and taking action
• Preparing files to go out to an external costs draftsperson
• Preparing routine correspondence
• Actioning incoming emails in a timely way and filing accordingly
• Providing assistance and legal support to the Court of Protection team in managing various tasks and administration on client matters

TECHNICAL KNOWLEDGE

• Proficient in the use of standard Microsoft office products
• Experience of working with vulnerable individuals would be beneficial but not essential

WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW

Higgs offers hybrid working wherever possible. Our Higgs’ Best FIT (flexible, inclusive, together) principles are designed to ensure that people can complete their best work from the most appropriate location. If you are looking to work flexibly then let us know and we will do what we can to accommodate your request.
We encourage a ‘dress for your diary’ approach which means dressing in a manner appropriate for your schedule or the specific appointments you have on any given day.

OUR PURPOSE

To forge long-term relationships that have a positive impact on our people, our clients, our business partners, and our community.

ROLE PURPOSE

As a Legal Assistant you will be working within the Court of Protection team which is part of the Private Client Department. The team manages the affairs and makes decisions on behalf of people who lack the capacity to do so for themselves.
Your empathy, quick thinking, attention to detail and accuracy are vital attributes. The Court of Protection team is growing and you will need to have a broad understanding of legal matters, transactions, client requests and the demands of your team often connected to vulnerable clients and sensitive or complex issues.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

In line with policies and procedures key responsibilities include: