Administration Trainee

About Cornwalls:

Cornwalls is one of Australia’s oldest and most respected independent law firms. We are multidisciplinary, dynamic and innovative. We offer a full range of commercial law services and have offices in Melbourne, Sydney and Brisbane. We place great value on our people and take pride in our culture. Clients have entrusted us with their business since 1891. We are commercially astute, innovative and trusted advisors. We represent a broad array of corporations, family offices and high net worth individuals. Our clients are represented in every major industry. Our lawyers are thought leaders in legal issues critical to their areas of expertise. Our clients are integral to our firm. We work hard to understand their needs. Each client is distinct and we provide unique and dynamic solutions to ensure that our approach works for them.

About the role:

Based in our Melbourne office, An opportunity has arisen for an enthusiastic professional wanting to enter into the Legal Industry and gain practical on the job experience, whilst receiving extensive training (and a certificate III) in Business. 

Key responsibilities:

Providing support to the Front of House, and the Legal Team Coordinators, you will be the first point of call for administration support, for the Legal Assistants, Law Clerks and Administrators of the firm. The Key responsibilities will include: 

Front of House:

• Ordering and upkeep of Stationary
• Mail (incoming & outgoing)
• High Volume Printing & Scanning
• Document delivery or collection
• Reception relief
• Word Processing
• Assisting Legal Assistants with archiving, filing and overflow work
• Filling in when an LA is absent or on leave
• Daily mail management – scanning and distribution

Legal Support:

• Hard copy and electronic filing is done on a regular basis (at least daily)
• Co-ordinating incoming and outgoing correspondence (mail, email etc.)
• Assisting with photocopying and scanning of correspondence and documents
• Dispatching couriers or other forms of delivery
• Dictaphone typing
• Complying with all firm policies and procedures
• Request files from archives
• Assist with department overflow/or team absenteeism if capacity allows.
• Liaise with external suppliers

Client Liaison:

• Co-ordinating and arranging meetings and booking meeting rooms prior to meetings, or coordinating Teams Meetings
• Complying with the firm’s commitment to superior client service standards

Time Management:

• Attending work on time
• Ability to prioritise tasks to meet set deadlines
• Keeping personal calls, activities and use of the internet to official break times (except in cases of emergency)

Legal Documentation:

• Amending contracts/agreements (mark-up/track changes) if applicable
• Obtaining relevant searches as requested

Filing and Records Management:

• Setting up new files (physical files)
• Organising and maintaining files and Court documents.
• Maintaining accurate and complete accounting records on files.
• Closing files immediately upon completion including placing correspondence on the file.

Billing:

• Assisting in the preparation of bills within required timeframes, with the support of the Legal Team Coordinator.
• Always correct and up to date, with the support of the Legal Team Coordinator
• Ensuring disbursements are allocated to the correct matter
• Generate reports as required.

To be successful in this role, you will need to have:

• Word processing skills minimum 60WPM with high degree of accuracy
• Proficient in spelling, punctuation and grammar
• Solid attention to detail
• Competent at Microsoft Office Suite – Word, Outlook, Excel and PowerPoint
• Outstanding organisational skills including planning and time management
• Excellent interpersonal skills including active listening, verbal and written communication
• Enthusiastic
• Ability to meet deadlines
• Ability to prioritise
• Good attention to detail and accuracy
• Strong commitment to confidentiality
• Committed, positive attitude
• Punctual and reliable
• Customer-service orientation
• Ability to remain poised under pressure
• Ability to always engage and communicate with employees in a professional and positive manner
• Strong commitment to and understanding of the firm values
• Professional appearance

What we offer:

Cornwalls has a rich history dating back to 1891. We are defined by our heritage and values demonstrated by our founders. As a multidisciplinary practice, with talent and culture being the cornerstone pillar to our business strategy, we embrace diversity & equality and provide staff with opportunities to always learn, grow and be part of a dynamic culture. In addition, we have:

• Continuous learning and development programs
• Involvement in innovation initiatives
• Regular social events
• Group sporting events
• A fun and enjoyable workplace, where everyone will know your name
• Involvement in the plus more aspect of the firm

To be eligible for an apprenticeship or traineeship you must be an Australian Citizen, Permanent Resident or have full working rights.