Legal Executive
Controller Job Description
A legal executive is a fee-earning lawyer who qualifies as a Fellow of the Chartered Institute of Legal Executives (CILEx). Legal executives are typically employed by law firms, public sector organisations and the in-house legal teams of commercial enterprises in the private sector.
Legal Executives are required to keep up to date with legal developments and continue training throughout their career.
Typical duties of a Controller
Roles and Responsibilities:
• Providing legal advice to clients; corresponding with them and explaining complex legal matters.
• Liaising with fellow professionals on behalf of clients.
• Researching information and preparing legal documents.
• Attending court to assist with the presentation of cases.
• Conducting advocacy in High Court and County Court.
• Acting as a commissioner for oaths for swearing of legal documents.
• Keeping up to date with changing legislation.
• Preparing the accounts of a legal practice.
• Assisting Solicitors and working alongside Paralegals, Legal Secretaries and other legal professionals.
Essential Skills:
• Communication and interpersonal skills.
• Analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Negotiation skills.
• Research and drafting skills.
• Attention to detail.
• Organisation skills with the ability to prioritise tasks effectively.
• The ability to work well as part of a team.
• Professionalism and discretion.
• Administrative and IT skills.
Qualifications: The legal executive profession is regulated by CILEx, of which all aspiring legal executives must be a member. The route to qualification normally takes around four years and differs to that of a solicitor and depends on whether you are a law or non-law graduate.