JOANNE McMANUS
Melbourne,VIC
Summary
Reliable Paralegal with extensive knowledge in retail, banking and finance law, in particular residential and financial transactions. Applies excellent attention to detail and accuracy whilst examining and preparing documents using technical and high organisational skills. Utilises exceptional communication skills whilst corresponding with clients and colleagues to establish strong business relationships. Legal professional with extensive experience in providing top-tier administrative and legal support. Proven track record of managing case files, conducting thorough legal research, and assisting in trial preparation. Highly reliable team player with strong focus on efficiency and adaptability in fast-paced legal environment.
Overview
33
33
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
Legal Assistant
Madgwicks Lawyers
10.2018 - Current
- Maintained strict confidentiality, protecting sensitive client information as required by legal ethics and regulations.
- Handled office scheduling and made notes for deadlines, motions, and other important dates.
- Improved communication between attorneys and clients by scheduling meetings, providing status updates, and relaying critical information promptly.
- Increased client satisfaction by efficiently managing case files and promptly addressing inquiries.
Paralegal
Galilee Solicitors
04.2017 - 12.2017
- Examining executed documents as well as all supporting documentation to ensure each file is legally binding
- Corresponding with clients, solicitors/conveyancers, brokers, lenders and dual state offices in preparation of certifying files ready for settlement
- Reviewing daily action plan report, reporting to clients, team members and brokers. Updating physical and online files
- Enhanced case efficiency by organizing and maintaining legal documents, files, and correspondence.
- Liaised with other paralegals and legal staff to complete common tasks on schedule.
- Contributed to firm-client relationship building through professional interactions with clients during meetings or phone calls, conveying empathy while maintaining confidentiality.
- Reduced attorney workload by drafting routine legal documents such as pleadings, motions, and affidavits.
- Managed scheduling of court calendars and deadlines to maintain smooth flow of firm operations.
Paralegal
Denton's formally Gadens Lawyers
07.2015 - 03.2017
- Company Overview: (Commercial, Residential and Financial Transactions)
- Reviewing daily action plan report, reporting to clients, team members and brokers. Updating physical and online files
- Corresponding with clients, solicitors/conveyancers, brokers, lenders and dual state offices in preparation of certifying files ready for settlement
- Circulating and advising funds available for settlement, organising funds, settlement preparation, sending documents for registration and correcting requisitions
- Examining executed documents as well as all supporting documentation to ensure each file is legally binding
- Achievements:
- Selected as lead paralegal to major client
- Communicated with clients, opposing counsel and court personnel to keep all parties informed on case updates.
- Maintained and updated organized client contact information to keep in touch with clients and provide updates on cases.
- Boosted office productivity by maintaining an accurate calendar of appointments, deadlines, and court appearances.
Paralegal
Hunt and Hunt Lawyers
09.2010 - 06.2015
- Company Overview: (Formerly with Langes which merged with Hunt & Hunt in Feb 2014)
- Liaising with clients, solicitors/conveyancers, settlement agents and banks
- Opening and closing mortgage matter files
- Document preparation – mortgages, discharges and other land titles office documents (NSW and interstate)
- Checking property enquiry certificates such as section 149(2) certificate and land tax
- Administrative duties – answering calls, managing incoming/outgoing correspondence, ordering stationery and other office items and organising appointments
- Attending Settlements
- Achievements:
- Commended for multi-tasking in a large and busy area at peak times.
- Assisted in preparation of settlement proposals and agreements to help attorneys negotiate settlement in best interest of client.
- Conferred with clients and other involved parties to gather and track case information.
- Conducted detailed client intakes and entered information into company database.
Member Service Officer/Collections
Police Credit Union Limited
10.2009 - 09.2010
- Participated in regular team meetings to discuss strategy, performance metrics, and ways to improve branch efficiency.
- Collaborated with colleagues to develop strategies for improving overall member experience and service delivery.
- Developed strong relationships with members, fostering trust and loyalty by providing exceptional customer service.
- Maintained customer records by updating account information.
Member Service Officer
Bankstown City Credit Union
04.2003 - 09.2009
- Maintained customer records by updating account information.
- Promoted credit union products and services to members, identifying opportunities to meet their financial needs.
- Received numerous commendations from supervisors for consistently exceeding performance expectations in delivering member services.
- Enhanced member satisfaction by promptly addressing inquiries and resolving issues in a professional manner.
- Coordinated staff training sessions on new products or procedures, enhancing team knowledge and skills for improved efficiency.
- Prepared monthly, daily, and weekly statistical reports.
- Provided financial counselling to members in need, offering guidance on budgeting, debt management, and savings plans.
- Collaborated with team members to achieve branch goals and objectives.
Store Manager
Fashion Warehouse
09.1994 - 04.2003
- Managed daily operations to ensure smooth functioning of the store, maintaining a clean, safe environment for customers and employees.
- Managed inventory control, cash control, and store opening and closing procedures.
- Managed store employees successfully in fast-paced environment through proactive communication and positive feedback.
- Assisted with hiring, training and mentoring new staff members.
- Improved customer satisfaction through staff training in customer service and product knowledge.
Store Manager
Table Eight
08.1992 - 09.1994
- Addressed customer complaints promptly and professionally, resolving issues to maintain positive relationships with clientele.
- Maintained proper product levels and inventory controls for merchandise and organized backroom to facilitate effective ordering and stock rotation.
- Completed point of sale opening and closing procedures.
- Rotated merchandise and displays to feature new products and promotions.
- Maximized sales by creating innovative visual merchandising displays and store layouts.
Education
Certificate III - Financial Services
Australian College of Commerce And Management
Sydney, NSW01.2004
School Certificate -
Mount Saint Josephs
Sydney, NSW01.1986
Skills
- Computing skills: Microsoft Office, Exari (Legal documentation program), PEXA, Lexus Nexus
- Disciplined approach to work
- Excellent efficiency in completing tasks to meet deadlines Planning, prioritising and delivering results
- Managing self as well as supporting colleagues
- Thorough and fast learner – ability to adapt quickly to change
- Exceptional verifiable talent for ensuring customer satisfaction
- Fast learner
- Scheduling/Planning
- Microsoft office
- File organization
- Calendar management
- Client communication
Accomplishments
Madgwicks Employee of the year 2023
Certification
- Progress Training Systems Pty Ltd
- B.E.S.T Selling System
- (In-house training conducted by myself and a work colleague)
Languages
Arabic
Native or Bilingual
Timeline
Legal Assistant
Madgwicks Lawyers
10.2018 - Current
Paralegal
Galilee Solicitors
04.2017 - 12.2017
Paralegal
Denton's formally Gadens Lawyers
07.2015 - 03.2017
Paralegal
Hunt and Hunt Lawyers
09.2010 - 06.2015
Member Service Officer/Collections
Police Credit Union Limited
10.2009 - 09.2010
Member Service Officer
Bankstown City Credit Union
04.2003 - 09.2009
Store Manager
Fashion Warehouse
09.1994 - 04.2003
Store Manager
Table Eight
08.1992 - 09.1994
Certificate III - Financial Services
Australian College of Commerce And Management
School Certificate -
Mount Saint Josephs
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