Paralegal – Wills, Estates and Property

Parke Lawyers is an established, quality-assured legal practice based in Ringwood. We provide practical, high-quality legal services to private clients, families, businesses and organisations.

Our work includes wills and estate planning, probate and estate administration, estate litigation and Testators Family Maintenance claims, conveyancing and property law. We are committed to careful work, responsive client service and high standards of professional integrity.

We are seeking a capable and well-organised paralegal to join our Ringwood office. The position may be full-time or part-time, depending on the successful applicant's availability.

This is an on-site role involving a combination of paralegal, file-management and general legal support work. You will work closely with our lawyers and assist with matters involving wills and estates, estate disputes, conveyancing and property law.

The role would suit either an experienced legal assistant or paralegal, or a law student or legal services graduate seeking practical experience in a professional legal practice.

Your responsibilities may include:

• assisting lawyers with wills, estate planning, probate and estate administration matters;
• assisting with estate litigation and Testators Family Maintenance claims;
• supporting residential and commercial conveyancing and property matters;
• preparing routine correspondence and legal documents under supervision;
• opening and maintaining electronic and physical files;
• entering and maintaining matter and client information in LexisNexis Affinity;
• conducting property, company, court and other searches;
• recording and managing wills, titles and other safe-custody documents;
• communicating with clients, other solicitors and third parties;
• arranging appointments and assisting with client follow-up;
• monitoring important dates, tasks and matter progression;
• answering incoming telephone calls and directing enquiries appropriately; and
• providing general administrative support to the firm's lawyers.

You will have:

• excellent attention to detail and a commitment to accuracy;
• clear and professional written and verbal communication skills;
• strong organisational skills and the ability to manage competing priorities;
• confidence using computer systems and learning new legal technology;
• a professional and courteous manner when dealing with clients;
• discretion and sensitivity when handling confidential or personal information;
• the ability to work both independently and as part of a small team; and
• a reliable and conscientious approach to your work.

Previous experience in a law firm or conveyancing practice would be highly regarded but is not essential. A Diploma of Legal Services, paralegal qualification or current study toward a Bachelor of Laws would also be well regarded.

The successful applicant will receive:

• practical experience across wills and estates, litigation and property law;
• direct involvement in client matters;
• training and support from experienced legal practitioners;
• varied work and opportunities to develop new skills;
• a professional and collegial working environment;
• flexibility to structure the position on a full-time or part-time basis; and
• a salary package commensurate with experience, qualifications and agreed working hours.

Please apply through the corresponding SEEK advertisement. Applications will be treated in confidence. Shortlisted applicants may be asked to provide professional referees later in the recruitment process. No applications from recruitment agencies, please.