PARALEGAL - FAMILY LAW TEAM, BOURNEMOUTH

My highly regarded Legal 500 client, with a strong presence in Bournemouth, is currently seeking to expand its Family Law team. This firm is well-known for its innovative approach, offering a diverse range of legal services to both individuals and businesses. With a strong reputation for excellence, particularly in the areas of matrimonial finances, divorce, and Children Law, this firm boasts a team of highly skilled and specialist lawyers, including accredited members of the Law Society Children Panel, who represent clients across a variety of family law matters and regularly engage in advocacy in Court.
The Role: You will provide essential support to fee earners in the Family team, focusing primarily on cases related to both private and public law children proceedings. Under the supervision of experienced lawyers, you will assist in progressing cases, engaging with clients, gathering evidence, conducting research, and managing case files. You will be an integral part of the team, contributing to case strategies and helping to ensure smooth progression through various legal processes.

QUALIFICATIONS:

• A Law graduate or completion of HNC or equivalent experience.

KNOWLEDGE:

• Solid experience in Family Law, particularly Children’s cases.
• High IT proficiency, especially with MS Office, and ideally with experience using electronic legal case management systems.

SKILLS:

• Motivated and adaptable, with enthusiasm, commitment, and strong professional experience.
• Proven legal research skills, with an understanding of how to present legal research and opinions effectively.
• Organised and resilient in a fast-paced work environment.
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills.
• Commercial awareness and an understanding of client needs.
• Ability to work independently and take initiative.
• Team-oriented with a strong desire to support colleagues and the overall team.
• Meticulous attention to detail and excellent time management skills, with the ability to meet tight deadlines.
• Competent in general administration.

EXPERIENCE:

• Previous experience in a similar legal role, either within a law firm or a legal department, is essential.
• Relevant work experience, including work placements or volunteer roles, is highly desirable.
  If you have the right skills and experience, and are looking to contribute to a dynamic, forward-thinking team, please do apply or email your CV to sophie@ljwsolutions.com

• Gather necessary information to evaluate the merits of new enquiries and assess legal aid eligibility when appropriate.
• Keep accurate time records of any fee-earning activities.
• Assist in children cases by managing delegated tasks from fee earners, including preparing instructions to counsel, drafting statements, and maintaining communication with clients, advocates, and third parties.
• Progress cases in line with Family Court directions, in consultation with the relevant fee earner.
• Upload documents to the Court Portal and assist with bundle preparation using the ‘Bundledocs’ online application.
• Compile summary reports to assist fee earners with case progression and advocacy.
• Conduct legal research, using both existing case files and other resources, to support client advice and contribute to case strategy development.
• Stay current on relevant legal changes.
• Draft articles for internal or external distribution as needed.
• Maintain paperless files in the firm’s case management system, ensuring compliance with professional and internal protocols and the LEXCEL quality mark standard.
• Assist with billing processes and handling funds as directed.
• Build and maintain professional relationships with clients and other professionals, contributing to marketing efforts as required.