Law Firm Administrator

Answer 1

Law firm administrators are responsible for the day-to-day management of all aspects of a law firm, from financial management to human resources. They have constant contact with all employees within the law firm, completing their primary task to carry out and oversee all of the firm’s business and human resource needs. Common duties of the position include hiring and firing, cash flow control, employee relations and library management. The ideal candidate for a career in law firm administration is highly organized, proficient in written and oral communications and capable of independently making crucial decisions that determine the success of the law firm. Law firm administrator is a leadership position, so creativity, fairness and integrity are personal qualities useful in fostering a positive and productive work environment.

Educational requirements of the position are decided by the specific wants of the law firm, and revolve around common practices in the legal field, but a degree is not usually required. However, most administrators have either advanced degrees that reflect the knowledge necessary to perform the variety of tasks the position requires such as tax planning, accounting and operational audits. Additionally, administrators of large law firms often hold a CPA because of the considerable amount of accounting. If an applicant for a law firm administrator position doesn’t possess a degree, extensive experience in the legal field is often regarded as equal to a formal education. Regardless of whether the applicant has more experience or education, as the main person all employees seek out for support, he/she must have a practical working knowledge of office management. Knowledge of legal terminology and research are also necessary for daily communications common to a law firm and possible legal secretarial assignments. Administrators who seek professional development may find organizations such as the Association of Legal Administrators, that offer conferences, continuing education and certification, useful to their career. The starting salary for this position varies by law firm size and ranges from an average of $48,250 to $82,250.