Legal administrative assistants (NOC 1242)

Legal administrative assistants:

• Prepare and key in correspondence and legal documents, such as deeds, wills, affidavits and briefs, from handwritten copy, shorthand and machine dictation using computers
• Review and proofread documents and correspondence to ensure compliance with legal procedures and grammatical usage
• Schedule appointments, meetings and conferences for employer
• Set up and maintain filing systems, utilizing knowledge of legal records and procedures and frequently controlling confidential materials and documents
• Open and distribute regular and electronic incoming mail and other material and co-ordinate the flow of information internally and with other departments or organizations
• Determine and establish office procedures and routines
• May supervise and train other staff in procedures and in the use of current software
• May attend court, meetings or conferences to take notes, minutes and dictation
• May perform other general office work as required including preparing financial statements.

Legal administrative assistants work mainly in law offices or the legal sections of larger organizations. Most legal administrative assistants work regular, full-time office hours throughout the year. However, some after-hours or weekend work may be required, depending on specific demands.

The work involves extensive use of computer word processing and information management systems and equipment. Injuries such as wrist or eye strain may arise as a result of using computers for extensive periods.

Most new job opportunities that come available in the next few years will arise from the need to replace retiring workers.

Employment growth in this occupational group is not expected in the next few years, largely as a result of office automation and technological changes that have reduced the demand for administrative assistant professionals. However, of the specialties within the administration occupational group, legal administrative assistants have more favourable labour market conditions and stronger prospects for full-time work.

While the current supply of new graduates is sufficient, some employers are finding it difficult to find candidates with hands-on practical experience and substantive knowledge in the various areas of legal practice. Legal administrative assistants with training and experience in litigation and conveyance procedures, as well as those with strong computer and communication skills, will be highly sought after.