A Legal Executive is a type of qualified Lawyer who has specialised in a specific area of Law. Whereas a solicitor must cover several practice areas before they qualify, a legal executive receives training in their chosen area of legal practice. They have focused on a particular area of Law.
Legal executives provide essential support to lawyers. They conduct legal research, prepare legal documents, and manage cases. Likewise, they ensure legal proceedings are completed efficiently and effectively. They are responsible for a wide range of tasks, from conducting legal research to preparing legal documents and managing cases.
What does a legal executive do? The following are the key responsibilities of a Legal Executive:
– Legal research. Legal executives must research various topics extensively. This research supports the work of Lawyers.
– Administrative tasks. Legal executives handle a variety of administrative tasks. For example, they must answer phone calls, manage correspondence and schedule appointments.
– Dealing with Legal Matters. Legal executives deal with a variety of legal matters, such as writing wills, property conveyancing and divorce settlements.
– Relationships. Legal executives liaise with fellow legal professionals on behalf of clients. They also build positive relationships with clients, witnesses, and other stakeholders. They ensure all communications are professional.
– Case management. Legal executives manage cases, including filing documents, organising evidence and tracking deadlines.
– Document preparation. Legal executives prepare legal documents. They must research information to prepare legal documents and act as commissioners for oaths for the swearing of legal documents.
Legal Executives also need to keep up-to-date with changes and developments in the Law. Likewise, they must complete training throughout their careers.
Qualifications and training
The qualifications and educational requirements for a Legal Executive vary. You can get into this job through University, college, an apprenticeship or working towards the role.
However, you must become a fellow of The Chartered Institute of Legal Executives (CILEx). You will need to gain the CILEx professional qualification in Law and complete a minimum of three years of supervised legal experience.
If you have a law degree, you can complete a ‘fast-track’ diploma to become a Chartered Legal Executive. The diploma takes around nine months of part-time study.
What if you’re not a law graduate? You will need to complete two stages of qualification to become a Legal Executive. The first is the CILEx Level 3 Professional Diploma in Law and Practice. This course is equivalent to an A Level.
The next stage is the Level 6 Professional Higher Diploma in Law and Practice. This is a degree-level qualification where you study a total of 6 subjects.
Key skills for Legal Executives
– Excellent written and verbal communication skills
– Organisational and time management skills
– The ability to work well under pressure
– Teamworking skills
– ICT skills
– Extensive legal knowledge, including legal terminology, court procedures and ethical standards
– Discretion
– Analytical and problem-solving skills
How much do Legal Executives earn?
The average salary of a Legal Executive varies. An entry-level Legal Executive can earn between £15,000 to £28,000 per annum. A fully qualified Legal Executive can expect to earn around £30,000 – £50,000, whilst senior Legal Executives can earn over £55,000