Secretary, lawyer

What does a secretary at a law firm do? – Tasks and work environment

Secretaries specializing in law firms work closely with lawyers, attorneys, and sometimes court staff. Tasks typically include managing emails and correspondence, scheduling meetings, transcribing documents, organizing client files, and assisting with the preparation of legal documents. The role requires precision and the ability to work under pressure, as law firms often operate at a high tempo with tight deadlines. The work environment is usually office-based and involves both independent work and teamwork. Discretion and confidentiality are crucial since sensitive information is regularly handled.

Salary development over time

Secretaries at law firms have experienced steady salary increases over the past three years. In 2022, the average salary was 34,200 SEK per month, which increased to 35 400 SEK in 2023. In 2024, the average salary is 37 300 SEK, representing an increase of about 9% over two years. This salary trend reflects increased demand for administrative skills in legal settings and a general sector-wide salary rise. The trend indicates that the market values experience and specialized knowledge more highly, especially as the tasks become more complex. Additionally, digitalization and increased documentation requirements have impacted the profession's complexity and salary levels.

Secretaries, lawyer salary – comprehensive overview

• Average salary: 37 300 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 32,900 SEK/month (male, public sector, high school education)
• Highest salary: 41,100 SEK/month (male, private sector, post-secondary education 3+ years)
• Women’s average salary: 36 100 SEK/month
• Women’s highest salary: 38,100 SEK/month
• Women’s lowest salary: 33,300 SEK/month
• Hourly wage (average): 224 SEK/hour
• Regional differences: Data varies, but metropolitan areas tend to offer slightly higher salaries.

Education and qualifications

To work as a secretary at a law firm, a high school education in economics or administration is generally required, often supplemented by post-secondary courses in law, administration, or similar subjects. Practical experience and good IT skills are highly meritorious, as well as the ability to communicate well verbally and in writing. Many employers also value experience from similar roles in law or public administration.

• High school education: Economics or administration programs (3 years)
• Post-secondary courses: Law, administration, document management
• Internships: Meritorious, often via trainee positions or summer jobs
• IT skills: Good knowledge of Office packages and digital archive systems
• Language skills: Swedish and English, sometimes other languages depending on the firm

Common benefits and compensations

Typical benefits for secretaries at law firms include wellness contributions, extra vacation days, flexitime, and the possibility of remote work. Pension schemes and collective agreements are often offered, especially at larger firms and in the public sector. Further, training grants and skill development may be part of employment conditions.

Competition and challenges

The competition for secretary positions at law firms can be intense, especially in larger cities where demand for administrative roles is high. Employers are increasingly demanding in terms of technical skills, language proficiency, and experience with legal work. A challenge is that the role is rapidly changing due to digitalization and new workflows, requiring ongoing training. Workload can be uneven, with periods of high intensity during major legal proceedings or deadlines. The ability to handle stress and switch quickly between tasks is crucial for success in the profession.

Tips for those aspiring to become secretaries at law firms

To succeed as a secretary at a law firm, it is beneficial to be meticulous and organized, as the work often involves managing multiple tasks and sensitive documents simultaneously. Good communication skills facilitate cooperation with lawyers and clients, especially when information must be conveyed clearly and accurately. Flexibility and the ability to adapt quickly to new tasks or routines are also important, since law firms often operate at a high pace with rapid changes. Discretion is essential, as confidential information is handled daily. Furthermore, good IT skills are a plus, since digital tools and case management systems are central to daily work. For those who are solution-oriented and interested in law, this profession offers variety and development opportunities.

Key facts about secretaries at law firms

• Average salary: 37 300 SEK/month
• Gender differences: Women earn on average 36 100 SEK/month
• Salary range: 32,900–41,100 SEK/month
• Work environment: Office-based, high pace, requires confidentiality
• Job vacancies: 758 listings in the profession last year

Career paths and future outlook

After three to five years as a secretary at a law firm, there are opportunities to advance to more specialized roles, such as chief secretary, paralegal, or administrative coordinator. Some choose to further their education in law or administration to move into even more qualified positions. Forecasts from the Employment Service show that there is generally good availability of jobs for court and legal secretaries, with 758 advertised positions last year. However, no precise assessment of future prospects for this specific area can be made due to limited data. Digitalization and increased demands for specialization are expected to continue shaping the profession in the future.

Frequently asked questions about secretaries at law firms

• What does a lawyer secretary earn?
  - The average salary is 37 300 SEK per month, with a range between 32,900 and 41,100 SEK depending on experience and sector.
• What education is required to become a secretary at a law firm?
  - High school education in economics or administration, supplemented by post-secondary courses in law or administration, is recommended.
• What is the work environment like for secretaries at law firms?
  - The work environment is office-based with a high pace and demands for accuracy and confidentiality.
• Are there salary differences between men and women?
  - Yes, women earn on average 36 100 SEK, while the highest salary for men is 41,100 SEK.
• What are the most common benefits?
  - Wellness contributions, extra vacation days, flexitime, and sometimes the possibility of remote work.
• What are the future prospects for the profession?
  - There is good availability of jobs, but no exact forecast due to limited data.
• How high is the demand for secretaries at law firms?
  - There are 758 job openings in the profession, indicating stable demand.