Paralegal, UK Group Claims

Overall purpose for this role

• To provide a reliable and efficient support service for clients and assist with general administration of group claims;
• To assist the firm in achieving its stated professional and commercial objectives;
• To undertake a wide variety of paralegal and administrative tasks as set out below.

Main duties and responsibilities

Case management

• To effectively manage group claims and ensure that accurate information and instructions are obtained from clients, that accurate records are maintained and that all files are kept up to date.
• Assist with drafting documents, client liaison including interviewing clients and taking instructions, preparation of witness statements, research work, assist with negotiations and provide general administrative support.
• Conduct legal and factual research and prepare research notes.
• Assist the solicitor/ team in all aspects of litigation including preparation of correspondence/ documents, dealing with funding issues, preparing for court hearings / trial / settlement, instruction of experts, disclosure review, quantification of claims, costs assessment/ negotiations
• To monitor all aspects of the case on behalf of the client and advise on whether subsequent developments affect views previously expressed.
• To pay attention to detail and ensure accuracy of work.
• Supporting the research and development of new areas of practice for the firm.
• In the absence of supervising fee-earner, ensure that urgent matters are referred to appropriate personnel.
• To ensure that all work is conducted in compliance with internal policies, SRA rules and the Civil Procedure Rules.

Client/ 3rd party management

• Communicate with clients/ other parties as and when necessary in a professional, courteous and efficient manner;
• Monitor aspects of the case on behalf of the client and advise on whether subsequent developments affect views previously expressed.

Document/ data management

• Ensure documents and copies of correspondence are kept up to date and filed;
• Ensure accuracy when updating client information on the relevant databases;
• Ensure database information is updated and maintained in accordance with instructions and in line with relevant processes;
• Open new files and close old files as required.

Any other tasks as might from time to time be required.

Person specification       

• Genuine interest in working with a leading claimant law firm and passionate about providing access to justice to all; 
• Ability to manage own workload in a busy environment to a consistently high standard and timely manner;
• Demonstrable understanding of and commitment to client care;
• Proven ability to communicate accurately, clearly and concisely, both verbally and in writing with a wide range of clients and various stakeholders;
• Experience in interviewing and liaising with clients and taking witness statements, dealing with clients sensitively and managing difficult conversations;
• Proven ability to work and contribute in a team environment;
• Good academic background with legal qualifications (Degree, GDL, LPC etc.);
• Proficient user of Microsoft Office, with experience of Practice / Case Management Systems and electronic disclosure review platforms.
• Ability to work well under pressure.

Desirable

• Experience in or knowledge of any of these areas will be an added advantage: consumer law, human rights, group claims/class actions, automotive engineering