News & Insights

New Vacancy – Personal Assistant

Secretary/ PA - Residential Property & Private Client
Full Time | Darlington | Salary: Competitive
Over the past 130 years Latimer Hinks has built a large, loyal, client base of individuals, families, farmers, land owners and businesses, drawn from across the North East of England. When recruiting we deliberately seek bright, enthusiastic, energetic and client focussed candidates, keen to help others and who share our key values of providing a professional, personal service with advice and care of the utmost quality.
To meet this brief and the increasing demand for our services, we’re now seeking to appoint into two new roles. We’re seeking an experienced and forward-thinking P.A. / Legal Secretary for our first class Residential Conveyancing team and also a similar candidate for our highly regarded Private Client team. These roles are ideal for someone with a proven capability of working in a busy professional services environment. We’re looking for someone who’s keen to advance their career or considers they have ample experience, knowledge and energy to continue to build on an already impressive career. Perhaps its time for you to experience a truly supportive and caring professional environment where you can confidently share your skills and client focussed approach.
Residential Conveyancing
What You’ll Be Doing:
- Providing comprehensive secretarial and administrative support to fee earners within the Residential Conveyancing Department
- Preparing correspondence, legal documents and contracts using digital dictation and case management systems
- Assisting with residential property transactions including sales, purchases, re-mortgages, transfers of equity, new build properties and leasehold matters
- Opening new files, carrying out client onboarding procedures and maintaining accurate matter records
- Liaising confidently with clients, estate agents, mortgage lenders, solicitors and other professional contacts
- Managing diaries, arranging appointments and coordinating meetings
- Handling telephone enquiries and providing a professional first point of contact for clients
- Supporting fee earners to progress matters efficiently whilst ensuring an excellent client experience throughout the transaction
- Working closely with colleagues across departments to ensure seamless service delivery
What We’re Looking For:
- Previous experience as a Legal Secretary, Legal Assistant or Personal Assistant within Residential Conveyancing
- Strong understanding of residential property transactions and conveyancing processes
- Excellent organisational skills with the ability to manage multiple tasks and priorities
- High levels of accuracy and attention to detail
- Proficiency in Microsoft 365, including Word, Outlook, Excel and ideally Copilot
- Excellent communication and client care skills
- Ability to work effectively both independently and as part of a team
- A professional, friendly and approachable manner
- A proactive attitude with a willingness to support colleagues and clients alike
Private Client
What You’ll Be Doing:
- Providing high-quality secretarial and administrative support to fee earners within the Private Client Department
- Preparing correspondence, legal documents and forms using digital dictation and case management systems
- Assisting with a wide range of private client matters including Wills, Lasting Powers of Attorney, Probate, Estate Administration, Trusts and Court of Protection work
- Opening new files, completing client onboarding procedures and maintaining accurate records
- Liaising with clients, beneficiaries, financial institutions and external organisations in a professional and empathetic manner
- Managing diaries, arranging appointments and coordinating meetings
- Handling telephone enquiries and acting as a first point of contact for clients and their families
- Supporting fee earners with matter progression, billing administration and document management
- Delivering exceptional client service throughout often sensitive and personal legal matters
What We’re Looking For:
- Previous experience as a Legal Secretary, Legal Assistant or Personal Assistant within a Private Client department
- Familiarity with Wills, Probate, Lasting Powers of Attorney and Estate Administration processes
- Excellent organisational and administrative skills
- Strong attention to detail and ability to prioritise workloads effectively
- Proficiency in Microsoft 365, including Word, Outlook, Excel and ideally Copilot
- Outstanding communication and client care skills
- A compassionate, professional and approachable manner
- Ability to work effectively under pressure while maintaining confidentiality and discretion
- A proactive and supportive team-focused approach
What We Offer:
- Competitive Salary
- Bonus Scheme
- Company Pension
- Private Health Scheme
- Salary Sacrifice EV Car Scheme
- Ongoing Training and Development Opportunities
- Supportive and Friendly Working Environment
If, like us, you believe in quality and building lasting relationships with clients and colleagues alike, we’d love to hear from you.
To apply, please submit your CV and a cover letter detailing your relevant experience and why you are interested in this role to Zhanar Dodds at recruitment@latimerhinks.co.uk





