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Thinking about a career in the UK legal sector but not sure about the commitment of becoming a solicitor or barrister? A career as a paralegal could be the perfect fit!
What is a Paralegal?
A paralegal (also known as a legal assistant) is a qualified professional who provides crucial support to solicitors, barristers, and other legal professionals. They are a vital part of any legal team, taking on a wide variety of tasks that require a strong understanding of law and legal procedures.
What does a paralegal do?
Paralegals handle a diverse range of responsibilities, such as:
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- Legal research: Analysing legislation, case law, and other legal materials to assist solicitors and barristers in developing legal strategies.
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- Document drafting: Preparing legal documents like court bundles, contracts, and witness statements.
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- Client liaison: Communicating with clients, gathering information, and keeping them updated on their case progress.
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- Case management: Organising and managing case files, court deadlines, and appointments.
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- Administrative support: Handling administrative tasks such as filing, correspondence, and diary management.
- Specialised tasks: Depending on their area of expertise, paralegals may also conduct legal research, prepare for trials, or even represent clients in certain tribunals.
Where do paralegals work?
Paralegals in the UK are employed in a variety of settings, including:
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- High Street and City law firms: Supporting solicitors in private practice across various legal specialisms.
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- Government agencies: Working for government departments and agencies like the Crown Prosecution Service or local councils.
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- In-house legal departments: Providing legal support within businesses and corporations.
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- Non-profit organisations: Assisting with legal matters for charities and other non-profit organisations.
What skills do you need to be a successful paralegal?
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- Legal knowledge: A solid understanding of UK legal principles and procedures.
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- Analytical skills: The ability to analyse legal documents and research findings.
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- Communication skills: Excellent written and verbal communication to interact with clients and legal professionals.
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- Organisational skills: Strong organisational and time-management skills to manage multiple tasks and deadlines.
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- Technology skills: Proficiency in legal software and research databases like Westlaw and LexisNexis.
How do you become a paralegal?
While there isn’t one set route to becoming a paralegal in the UK, employers often prefer candidates with formal qualifications.
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- University degree: A law degree (LLB) or a degree in a related field can be beneficial.
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- CILEx qualification: Completing the Chartered Institute of Legal Executives (CILEx) qualifications can lead to becoming a Chartered Legal Executive Lawyer, a qualification allowing you to undertake reserved legal activities.
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- National Association of Licensed Paralegals (NALP) qualifications: NALP offers a range of paralegal qualifications recognised by employers.
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- Apprenticeships: Some employers offer paralegal apprenticeships, allowing you to earn while you learn.
Is a paralegal career right for you?
If you have a strong interest in law, enjoy research and analysis, and possess excellent communication and organisational skills, a paralegal career in the UK could be a rewarding option. It offers the opportunity to work in the legal field without the extensive commitment required to become a solicitor or barrister. A career as a paralegal can be both challenging and fulfilling. With the right education, skills, and dedication, you can play a crucial role in the legal profession and make a real difference in people’s lives.
Where can I find more information about becoming a paralegal?
These professional organisations offer resources and support for aspiring and practising paralegals:
Where can I find paralegal jobs?
Paralegal jobs can be interim or permanent and can be found by applying directly to law firms or in-house legal departments. At Accutrainee we specialise in Interim and Permanent Paralegal jobs. Find out more about interim and permanent paralegal roles on our website.
