Litigation Personal Secretary

Job Description Legal Personal Assistant - Dispute Resolution & Litigation

Experience Level: Intermediate

Contract: Permanent

Working Pattern: Full-time

Location: Belfast

We are seeking an experienced and highly organised Legal Personal Assistant to support Legal Advisors within a busy Dispute Resolution and Litigation team based in Belfast. This is a pivotal role requiring initiative, precision and a proactive mindset. You will deliver a full PA service, ensuring the smooth day‑to‑day operation of the team, while also providing support across the wider UK practice when required.

This role is ideal for a motivated individual who thrives in a fast‑paced legal environment, takes ownership of their workload, and consistently delivers a high standard of support.

This is a leading UK law firm recognised for delivering outstanding client service, commercial insight and innovative legal solutions. With offices across the UK and Europe, the firm works with ambitious organisations across a wide range of sectors.

The firm is committed to creating an inclusive, supportive and high‑performing culture where people are encouraged to be themselves and succeed together. Employees benefit from a collaborative working environment, high‑quality work and a comprehensive, flexible benefits package designed to support both professional and personal wellbeing.

• Proactive diary management, identifying and resolving scheduling conflicts
• Organising meetings, travel, accommodation and events
• Preparing, drafting and issuing correspondence for approval
• Completing digital dictation including emails, documents, attendance notes and reports
• Managing incoming post, scanning to the case management system and circulating appropriately

• Opening new matters and preparing engagement documentation
• Completing file opening forms and liaising with central compliance teams on conflicts, KYC and AML checks
• Maintaining client files, archiving and off‑site storage coordination

• Collating and managing financial data and reports
• Monitoring financial hygiene, including WIP and aged debt reporting
• Raising invoices, chasing payment and processing expense claims
• Ensuring timely payment of third‑party invoices (e.g. counsel, experts, process servers)

• Supporting business development activity and maintaining accurate records
• Updating the firm’s CRM system with client contact information and BD activity

• Providing cover for PA absences across the wider Dispute Resolution and Litigation team
• Supporting multiple Legal Advisors and managing competing priorities effectively

• Previous experience as a Legal PA supporting Partners and Legal Advisors
• Northern Ireland litigation experience
• Exceptional organisational skills with strong attention to detail
• Ability to work independently, using initiative and sound judgement
• Strong upward management skills and the confidence to manage expectations
• Excellent keyboard and document production skills
• Strong knowledge of Microsoft Word, Outlook and Excel
• Experience using digital dictation
• Ability to remain calm, flexible and effective under pressure

• PowerPoint experience
• Experience supporting business development activity
• Familiarity with CRM systems

• Highly organised, methodical and efficient
• Professional, approachable and service‑driven
• Strong communication and listening skills
• Adaptable and comfortable working across multiple stakeholders
• Willing to embrace new technology, including AI‑powered productivity tools
• A collaborative team player who thrives in a high‑performing environment

For more information please reach out to Phil Doherty @ VANRATH