Harrison Pensa is actively recruiting for a role as a Legal Assistant with a focus on Wills & Estates for our office located in St. Thomas. This position will be a blended role with a 70% focus on Legal Assistant responsibilities and 30% focus on Reception responsibilities.

Key Responsibilities

• Perform administrative duties, including preparing/drafting correspondence, electronic and paper filing, entering dockets, preparation of accounts, photocopying, day-to-day scanning, faxing, arranging couriers, etc.;
• Maintains the day-to-day schedule and operations for the lawyer(s) to whom they report, maintains a bring-forward system, as well as providing appropriate reminders;
• Prepare draft Estate Planning documentation; Wills, Primary and Supplementary Wills, Powers of Attorney, affidavits of execution, insurance declarations, letters and reports;
• Assist with Charitable Registrations, Family Trusts, and Incorporations;
• Assist with Estate Administration tasks including the preparation of documentation and correspondence, communications with financial institutions, and preparation of estate accounting documents;
• Assist with Guardianship applications with document preparation, court filing and service of materials;
• Communicate to internal and external parties regarding ongoing file management;
• Opening, closing and covering reception area;
• Answering, screening, and forwarding phone calls in a professional manner for St. Thomas location;
• Assisting with couriers and mail;
• Ensuring the office is stocked with necessary supplies in mailroom and kitchenette;
• First point of contact for clients and visitors;
• Assisting with coordinating internal and external meeting requirements, including arranging for catered lunches, as required;
• Assist other lawyers and staff within the Wills and Estates practice group when necessary;
• Other duties as required.

Qualifications

• Post-secondary Legal Administrative Assistant Diploma, Law Clerk Diploma, Paralegal Diploma, or related discipline;
• 3-5 years’ experience in Wills & Estate Law is an asset;
• Strong verbal and written communication skills;
• Excellent organizational, attention to detail and time-management skills;
• Ability to prioritize workloads in a fast-paced practice;
• Professional attitude who is courteous and client-focused;
• Ability to work as a team player as well as independently;
• Proficient in Microsoft Office Applications and legal industry software.

At Harrison Pensa, we are a team that values you and your contribution. We recognize our employees are key in delivering exceptional service for our clients and fostering a supportive environment with the expertise to help you thrive.

We offer a salary commensurate with experience and a collegial environment.

Harrison Pensa LLP is a full-service law firm with offices in St. Thomas and London. Our team of 60 lawyers provide legal services to individuals, families and businesses on a range of matters including personal injury law, litigation and dispute resolution, family law, wills and estates, charities & not-for-profits, corporate law and real estate.

Located in the heart of Southwestern Ontario, St. Thomas is a picturesque community with an attractive cost of living, easy commutes, and all the amenities of a big city.

We encourage all candidates with an interest in the position to apply. Click below to apply, or send a cover letter and resume to [email protected] indicating “Wills & Estates Legal Assistant” in the subject line.

We encourage applications from persons with disabilities and will provide support throughout the recruitment process, including accommodation that considers an applicant’s accessibility needs.

While all submissions are appreciated, only those candidates selected for an interview will be contacted.

All applications will be held in strictest confidence.