Estates Assistant

Farrer & Co is an independent law firm, with a rich history. A centuries-long tradition of advising private families, individuals and charitable institutions is today complemented by our work with Businesses, Financial Services, Individuals, Families and Family Offices (IFFO), Education and Not For Profit organisations.

We look to be the market leader in our chosen areas of expertise, advising clients on the contentious and non-contentious legal, business and personal issues they face.

Our reputation and success is based on the goodwill of numerous close client relationships. We are trusted advisers, acting in our clients' long-term interests and paying careful attention to quality and personal service.

Our clients tell us they value us for our integrity, good judgement and professional excellence, as well as our broad perspective, practical solutions and value for money. They describe us as 'a likeable bunch' t

The Estates team at Farrer & Co has an unrivalled reputation. It is the only team ranked in the top tier in both Chambers and the Legal 500 for agricultural and rural affairs. It acts for some of the country's major landed estates, doing the most challenging, innovative and interesting work in the sector.

Our clients include private property companies, entrepreneurs, funds, charities, institutions, banks, international investors and high net worth individuals.

The main focus of the role will be to provide general support the Bona Vacantia Team including the preparation of various documents and payment and collection of monies.

• Open, frank and find file numbers for incoming post

• Send out post and faxes

• Certain photocopying and scanning (bulk jobs to be carried out by Docucentre in the usual way)

• Organisational support to include general maintenance of files, scanning of documents onto NetDocs and filing of documents onto paper files

• Provide advice on jurisdiction matters

• Assist on file opening and record keeping

• Pay cheques in and generally ensure monies are allocated to correct files

• Explain and assist NHS Trusts, local authorities, solicitors, banks and housing associations as to whether or not it is appropriate for cases to be referred to us

• Assist with general telephone enquiries

• Request files from storage and send files to storage every six months

• Keep Duchy database up to date

• Carry out Land Registry searches

• Carry out Companies House checks

• Complete account forms

• Assist with waiver letters for company restorations

• Assist with standard letters in the administration of estates of individuals dying intestate and without kin

• Assist in the preparation of six monthly accounts

• Assist in billing

• Assist in preparation of letters to former directors and shareholders of dissolved companies

• Assist in preparation of notices of disclaimer

• Provide support generally to other members of the bona vacantia team

• Efficient communication skills and the ability to communicate across all levels

• The ability to deal with and manage a conflicting priorities

• An enthusiasm for team work and an ability to assume responsibility and deal efficiently with a varied and often demanding workload are key requirements

• The candidate will be expected to become an integral part of an established and highly regarded team

• Qualified to GCSE standard, grade C (or equivalent) at Mathematics and English essential
• Previous office experience in legal sector preferred

Our office hours are 9.30am to 5.30pm but it is essential that the applicant is committed, flexible and prepared to work beyond normal office hours when necessary and in response to the demands of the business.