Legal Secretary Jailed for £500,000 theft

BBC News article about the jail sentence handed out to Leanne Harris. The BBC says

"A Sussex legal secretary who stole almost £500,000 has been jailed for four years and nine months at Hove Crown Court.

Leanne Harris, 25, took the money to fund a "frivolous and extravagant spending spree", the court was told.

One of her victims was an elderly woman over whom she had power of attorney, the court was told..."

Full article is here:

http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-sussex-16767656

Unemployment has risen sharply among the legal professional during the recession.

This article highlights the rise in the unemployment among solicitors.

“…Along with architects, surveyors and vets, solicitors comprise one of the professional groups to have experienced the biggest percentage increase in unemployment rates since the economic downturn. Many of those made redundant are thought to be in their late 40s and early 50s.

Since March 2008 the number of unemployed solicitors claiming benefits has risen by 401% to over 1,800. The number of unemployed architects rose from 155 to 1,595, but surveyors have fared worst, experiencing a near tenfold rise in the unemployment count. The number of accountants out of work has risen 250%...”

The full article is here:

http://www.lawgazette.co.uk/news/unemployment-rate-among-solicitors-climbs-400

Job interview with: Emma Stacey, Senior Executive at The Institute of Legal Secretaries and PAs

- You currently work for The Institute of Legal Secretaries & PAs; how long have you worked there & tell me more about your role within the ILS.

I have worked at the Institute since 2004. My role within the company is varied, interesting and I enjoy my work very much. I make important decisions about how the company operates, help to manage our courses and qualifications, provide career guidance to Students and Members as well as liaising with other companies who can help our Members.

- What attracted you to them as a Company? / How did you get your current job?

I previously worked for the National Association of Licensed Paralegals who promote qualifications and career development for Paralegals and used to run a Legal Secretary course. I was very interested in the career path of Legal Secretaries and what was available to them in the way of qualifications and career help. Fortunately, The Institute of Legal Secretaries and PAs contacted NALP in 2004 and I was given the opportunity to work for the company.

- What would you like to change about your industry?

Legal Secretaries are occasionally undervalued for the fundamental and hard work that they do for law firms so it is important to raise their profile so that they receive more recognition. The Institute helps their Members with this by increasing their knowledge and skills, encouraging personal and professional development and bringing awareness to the profession.

- Greatest challenge:

My greatest challenge is when we introduce new concepts and integrate them with our existing work so that it all runs smoothly. We are always open to change and improvements within the company.

- Favourite aspect of your work?

Receiving regular and positive feedback from Students and Members who we have helped with their careers. It reminds me of how worthwhile my work is.

- Who do you most admire?

I admire people who are honest, open and compassionate.

- What would you do, as a career, if you weren't working for the ILS?

I would like to work with disadvantaged children around the world.

- Any recommendations for job-seekers looking at a similar career path to you, or indeed working as a Legal Secretary?

Do as much research as possible about the career you want to pursue. Find out what qualifications or experience you need and how you can enhance the skills that you already have. Be dedicated and positive and you will succeed.

- Previous Jobs:

Legal Secretary , Ashfords Solicitors.
Senior Administrator, the National Association of Paralegals.
Manager, the National Association of Paralegals.

- What was your new years resolution and have you stuck to it?

To exercise regularly. Going to the gym after a hard day’s work isn’t always appealing but once I’m there it feels great.

- Interests:

Travelling to experience different societies and cultures – I have been to many countries in Europe, the USA, India, Thailand, South Africa and Japan. I read books on personal development as they keep me in tune with myself, and those around me. Dining and cooking with friends and family is always enjoyable. I love nature as I was brought up in the countryside and like to take walks in the woods or by the sea and watch documentaries such as Planet Earth and Tribe.

Many thanks to Emma for taking the time to share her career experience with Simply Law Jobs

The Institute of Legal Secretaries and PAs

The Institute of Legal Secretaries and PAs was founded in 1990 to promote the excellence and professional recognition of Legal Secretaries and PAs. They are a professional organisation with Students and Members throughout the UK and overseas. The Institute provides training for those wanting to qualify and work as Legal Secretaries or PAs and they offer excellent services which help our Members with their careers.

SimplyLawJobs works in partnership with the Institute and we recommend you visit their website for more details about what they can offfer you.

Job of the Week: OXFORD - LEGAL P.A. / SECRETARY

This is an excellent opportunity for an experienced legal secretary to join one of Hampshire’s leading law firms, joining their busy Commercial Property department. Experience from working within a Commercial Property practice is desirable, but essential for this position.
Ideal candidates will have been educated to a good standard, perhaps posses secretarial qualifications but essentially must have excellent Word skills and be someone who pays great attention to detail. The role will consist mainly of audio typing, file management, some client contact and the ability to deal with amending documents
Excellent rates of pay, generous holiday entitlement and good benefits offered. For further information please contact Jason Nash on (phone number removed) or alternatively you can apply to (email address removed) All applications will be dealt with in the strictest of confidence and your details will not be released without prior consent. APPLY HERE

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