The Hidden Backbone of Midlands Law Firms: Why Good Legal Secretaries and PAs Are Getting Harder to Find

Overview:

Legal secretaries and PAs are often the unsung heroes of law firms, ensuring smooth operations, supporting partners, and keeping client relationships strong. Yet in the Midlands, these essential professionals are increasingly hard to recruit.

two women working

Why the Shortage of Legal Secretaries is Growing

  1. Competitive Market: Regional firms compete with London and national firms for experienced support staff.
  2. Career Mobility: Many PAs and legal secretaries are moving into project management, operations, or in-house roles.
  3. Retention Challenges: Without clear career progression, recognition, and development, talented support staff leave for roles that offer growth.

Impact on Firms

    • Increased workload for partners and solicitors
    • Risk of errors or delays in client work
    • Reduced team morale and efficiency

What Firms Can Do

    • Career Pathways: Offer progression into senior PA, practice manager, or operational roles.
    • Training & Skills Development: Invest in legal, technical, and leadership training.
    • Recognition & Work Environment: Acknowledge contributions and maintain a supportive culture.
    • Flexible Working: Hybrid schedules and autonomy over tasks are increasingly sought after.

Legal secretaries and PAs are the backbone of your firm. Proactively recruiting, developing, and retaining them is as critical as hiring solicitors or partners and no less challenging in the Midlands market.

About The HST Group

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