The Institute of Legal Finance & Management (ILFM) has announced a partnership with the Institute of Legal Secretaries and PAs (ILSPA) as part of the organisation’s continued aim to elevate standards in the legal profession and raise awareness of the invaluable work law firm support staff do in the profession.
The partnership will be long-standing as both parties work to improve support through qualifications and continued development training for its members. The ILFM and ILSPA’s partnership will offer the legal profession and consumers of a law the knowledge that law firm staff have the confidence and knowledge to adhere to compliance and regulations, as well as provide technical expertise.
Tim Kidd, Chief Executive, ILFM said: “The ILFM works hard towards offering more inclusive career opportunities into the legal industry and partnering with the ILSPA will give our existing members more chances to cross over with their peers whilst continuing to learn and develop. We understand the pressures on law firm employees to adhere to regulations, shoulder compliance responsibilities, support the lawyers and help the clients. Both the ILFM and ILSPA’s aim is for all law firm partners and owners to acknowledge their support staff talent and qualifications, leading to better retention and a culture that embodies equality.”
Both ILPSA and ILFM are seeing a growing demand from law firm HR managers and partners looking to offer employee training and development opportunities to raise their respective firm’s standards. Progressive law firms realise that support staff are integral to the smooth running of the firm, its cashflow, compliance and reputation, and therefore a culture that attracts like-minded individuals that feel valued.
Emma Stacy, Chief Executive, ILPSA added: “The Institute of Legal Secretaries and PAs recognises the fantastic work ILFM does for its Members and the legal industry as a whole. Each legal professional has valuable skills which contribute to the efficiency and smooth running of legal departments. Firms that help develop the full potential of their support staff optimise their overall performance and ensure that clients are provided with an excellent service. Organisations which strive to provide training, resources and support for legal professionals have a very responsible role in upholding and maintaining the required standards. ILSPA is delighted to form a partnership with ILFM as industry peers”.
