Decia Abreu
London,England
Summary
A detail-oriented professional with a robust skill set in document drafting, digital dictation, and client handling techniques. Demonstrates exceptional organisational agility and proficiency in legal software, ensuring efficient diary and calendar maintenance. Adept at maintaining confidentiality while managing document filing and preparation, complemented by strong initiative taking and Microsoft Office suite mastery. Career goals include leveraging bookkeeping basics and basic accounting knowledge to enhance operational efficiency within a dynamic legal environment.
Focused Legal Secretary with solid administrative support background. Adept at paying attention to details as well as seeing larger picture when managing court filing procedures and deadlines.
Offering strong organisational skills and keen eye for detail. Knowledgeable about office management, document preparation, and client communication. Ready to use and develop written communication, time management, and research skills.
Overview
25
25
years of professional experience
4
4
years of post-secondary education
Work history
Legal secretary
Ricardina Bridges Solicitors
Stockwell, Lambeth
09.2025 - Current
- Liaised effectively between clients and lawyers, fostering open communication lines.
- Expedited case progression through meticulous preparation of court bundles.
- Accurately transcribed legal dictations, maximising accuracy in documentation processes.
- Ensured efficient workflow by managing legal correspondence and court documents.
- Assisted in case preparation to ensure accuracy and readiness for court proceedings.
- Updated knowledge continuously on legal regulations and developments to maintain professionalism.
- Managed confidential information with utmost discretion, ensuring privacy and compliance.
- Drafted legal documents, contributing to timely completion of cases.
- Improved client relationships with professional communication skills.
- Maintained a well-organised office environment which improved staff productivity.
- Alleviated lawyer workload by efficiently managing client queries and concerns.
- Conducted legal research, aiding in the successful resolution of complex cases.
- Executed general secretarial tasks such as photocopying or scanning, maintaining a well-functioning office space.
Dental receptionist
Stockwell Dental Practice
Stockwell, Lambeth
05.2016 - 04.2018
- Utilised dental software proficiently to maintain accurate records.
- Facilitated payment processes efficiently, aiding in seamless transactions for patients.
- Streamlined administrative processes for improved office efficiency.
- Conducted follow-up calls with patients after appointments for feedback collection.
- Maintained tidy and organised reception area for professional appearance.
- Enhanced patient experience by providing warm, friendly service.
- Ensured confidentiality of patient data by following regulations diligently.
- Resolved patient queries with professionalism and patience, enhancing customer service experience.
- Provided excellent customer service, improving patient satisfaction rates.
Bookkeeper
Dr Nelio Mendonca
Funchal Madeira, Portugal
05.2005 - 03.2014
- Assisted in budget preparation, aided in cost control measures.
- Balanced general ledger by reconciling entries accurately and promptly.
- Improved cash flow management with diligent accounts receivable follow-up actions.
- Managed financial records by meticulously entering and updating data.
- Updated inventory records regularly, helped maintain optimal stock levels at all times.
- Kept a record of business expenses, assisted in expense reduction strategies.
- Processed bank deposits regularly, reduced risk of theft or loss from carrying excessive cash.
- Used accounting software proficiently, simplified complex calculations and reporting requirements.
- Ensured tax compliance by preparing accurate tax returns on time.
- Organised physical documentation of financial records in required formats and according to proper bookkeeping principles.
Post office assistant
Correios de Portugal
Funchal , Portugal
02.2001 - 03.2004
- Resolved customer complaints swiftly, ensuring satisfaction.
- Followed all safety procedures whilst handling packages containing hazardous materials.
- Answered queries about postal regulations effectively, providing clarity for customers.
- Handled cash transactions efficiently for smooth operations.
- Sorted mail and parcels, maintaining an organised workspace.
- Prepared daily financial reports meticulously, ensuring transparency in operations.
- Promoted available services to boost sales revenue.
- Maintained a clean and orderly work area for operational efficiency.
- Provided exceptional customer service to ensure satisfaction.
- Assisted customers with postage rates, leading to informed decisions.
Education
A-Levels - Economics
Secondary Scholl Jaime Moniz
Portugal 09.1997 - 07.2000
Certificate of Higher Education - Bookkeeper
Atle
Portugal 11.2006 - 07.2007
NVQ Level 2 - Accounting
Lambeth College
London 10.2023 - 04.2024
Skills
- Strong initiative taking
- Digital dictation familiarity
- Document drafting competence
- Client handling techniques
- Diary and calendar maintenance
- Legal software proficiency
- Basic accounting knowledge
- Microsoft office suite mastery
- Bookkeeping basics
- Organisational agility
- Document management
- Confidentiality
- Document filing
- Appointment setting
- Document preparation
Affiliations
- I enjoy do hand craft, like fabric paint, listen music and do Zumba
Languages
English
Elementary
Portuguese
Intermediate
Spanish
Elementary
References
References available upon request.
Timeline
Legal secretary
Ricardina Bridges Solicitors
09.2025 - Current
NVQ Level 2 - Accounting
Lambeth College
10.2023 - 04.2024
Dental receptionist
Stockwell Dental Practice
05.2016 - 04.2018
Certificate of Higher Education - Bookkeeper
Atle
11.2006 - 07.2007
Bookkeeper
Dr Nelio Mendonca
05.2005 - 03.2014
Post office assistant
Correios de Portugal
02.2001 - 03.2004
A-Levels - Economics
Secondary Scholl Jaime Moniz
09.1997 - 07.2000