Legal Assistant/Legal Executive

About This Role

This role is for an experienced Legal Assistant or Legal Executive to join a growing legal team, taking ownership of matters, building client relationships, and contributing to legal service delivery. It is a paralegal role, working closely with lawyers, drafting documents, meeting clients, and managing transactions within property, commercial, and trust work.

Responsibilities

• Draft legal documents, correspondence, and client advice
• Meet directly with clients and assist with instructions
• Manage files and progress matters proactively
• Prepare property, trust, estate, and commercial documentation
• Liaise with clients, banks, agents, and other professionals
• Assist lawyers with transactions and settlements
• Maintain high standards of accuracy, professionalism, and client service
• Provide strong administrative support, including file opening and maintenance, diary management, billing, and closing files

Requirements

• Previous experience as a Legal Assistant, Legal Executive, or similar legal professional
• Strong legal drafting skills
• Confidence to communicate directly with clients and other professionals
• Excellent attention to detail and strong organisational skills
• Ability to manage multiple priorities and work independently
• Proactive, solutions-focused approach
• Commitment to delivering exceptional client service
• Strong Word processing skills, including long document formatting
• Keen eye for detail and a commitment to maintaining accurate and up-to-date records
• Relationship skills that support a strong team culture
• Established skills using IT, and keen to explore how AI can assist your work

Nice to have:

• A New Zealand Legal Executive qualification

Benefits

• Good equipment and resources
• Modern offices
• Individual attention
• Easy access to senior practitioners
• All the responsibility you want and all the support you need
• Active social club
• Lots of laughter in the workplace
• Career development for assistants with or without Legal Executive qualifications
• Excellent opportunities for professional development

About the Company

Carlile Dowling Lawyers is a well-respected and established legal firm serving clients in Napier and beyond, with a strong reputation for delivering exceptional legal services. The firm is built on a foundation of excellence, integrity, and a deep commitment to its local community, with a team dedicated to helping clients achieve their goals and a collaborative and supportive work culture.