OVERVIEW

We are seeking a motivated and organised Residential Property Legal Assistant to join our busy Property Department in our Wellington office. The successful candidate will assist lawyers in managing residential property transactions, including sales, purchases, remortgages, and transfers of equity. This is an excellent opportunity for someone looking to build a career in property law, with exposure to a wide range of legal processes and opportunities for professional development.

SKILLS AND QUALIFICATIONS:

• Previous experience working in a legal assistant or administrative role within a property or conveyancing department is preferred, but not essential. Candidates with strong administrative backgrounds and an interest in property law are encouraged to apply.
• A basic understanding of residential conveyancing processes, including sales, purchases, remortgages, and transfers of equity, is advantageous.
• Excellent communication and client care skills, with the ability to liaise professionally and effectively with clients and third parties.
• Strong organisational and multitasking abilities, capable of managing a busy workload, prioritizing tasks, and meeting deadlines.
• High level of accuracy and attention to detail in preparing legal documents, maintaining files, and recording information.
• competent in using Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, Outlook) and experience using legal case management systems or willingness to learn.
• Ability to work effectively as part of a team, supporting solicitors and other colleagues while also working independently on assigned tasks.

DESIRABLE SKILLS:

• Experience with case management.
• Knowledge of SDLT (Stamp Duty Land Tax) and HM Land Registry processes.
• Basic understanding of regulatory requirements in a legal practice, such as anti-money laundering (AML) regulations.

• Provide support to solicitors and conveyancers in handling residential property transactions, including freehold, leasehold, new build, and remortgage matters.
• Communicate with clients, estate agents, mortgage lenders, and other third parties to provide updates, answer queries, and ensure smooth transaction progression.
• Assist in drafting, reviewing, and preparing legal documents such as contracts, transfer deeds, completion statements, and mortgage documentation.
• Carry out property searches (local authority, environmental, water, etc.), review results, and report findings to solicitors. Ensure all necessary checks and due diligence are completed.
• Open, manage, and maintain accurate and organised client files, both paper and electronic, ensuring compliance with firm procedures and regulatory requirements.
• Assist with the exchange of contracts and completion processes, including preparing documents, liaising with solicitors and clients, and ensuring all necessary steps are taken for timely completion.
• Handle post-completion matters, including registering properties with HM Land Registry, submitting Stamp Duty Land Tax (SDLT) returns, and ensuring all paperwork is completed and filed correctly.
• Assist with invoicing clients and ensuring accurate time recording of tasks completed during the transaction process.
• Provide general administrative support to the property team, including file opening, archiving, handling phone calls, scheduling meetings, and assisting with other tasks as required.