At a Glance
- Tasks: Support legal teams by creating resources and conducting research to drive positive change.
- Company: Join a purpose-driven firm committed to social impact and innovation.
- Benefits: Flexible working, green pensions, private healthcare, and a focus on well-being.
- Other info: Collaborative environment with opportunities for personal and professional growth.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in charity law while developing your legal skills.
- Qualifications: Law graduate or legal conversion qualification; previous paralegal experience preferred.
The predicted salary is between 31500 - 38500 £ per year.
We have an exciting opportunity for a Knowledge Paralegal to join our team of Knowledge Lawyers. You’ll work with the Knowledge team and wider Charity and Social Enterprise department to produce know-how resources, contributing to internal and external communications and delivering excellence in legal support. You’ll be part of a firm shaping positive change in the legal landscape.
Key Responsibilities
- This role is for someone passionate about legal drafting and research, knowledge sharing, and supporting fee earners (i.e. client facing lawyers) with high-quality resources.
- Coordinating and contributing to newsletters and briefings for our team and clients.
- Updating existing knowhow and creating new knowhow on specialist areas of law affecting our charity and social enterprise clients.
- Updating existing precedents and creating new precedents.
- Maintaining the charity and social enterprise section of the firm-wide knowledge database and contributing to strategies for improving knowhow sharing.
- Contributing to dissemination of knowledge via departmental knowhow meetings and other internal training sessions, particularly in planning and taking minutes from these sessions, as well as presentation opportunities.
- Providing high quality support to other fee earners by carrying out legal research and responding to queries.
- Assisting with and participating in client events when required.
Skills, Knowledge and Expertise
- You are a law graduate or have a legal conversion qualification.
- You don’t have to have studied charity law but some company law knowledge would be useful.
- Ideally you have previous paralegal experience.
- You have excellent technical legal knowledge and research skills, and an interest in learning about charity law.
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with strong attention to detail.
- You understand the importance of good knowledge management and knowledge sharing processes in a law firm.
- Collaborate effectively with others, valuing teamwork while also contributing independently when needed.
- You are not afraid to test assumptions and challenge.
- You want exposure to a variety of challenges that will allow you to innovate.
- Demonstrate strong technical expertise, commercial awareness, and the ability to build positive working relationships.
- You share our values and want to make a difference.
- You want to feel that you are a part of the Bates Wells experience and ‘belong’.
Benefits
- Impact-Driven Purpose: We align profit with social purpose to create lasting positive impact for our people, communities, and planet.
- Committed to the Climate: Through our Climate Programme, we reduce environmental impact and drive a just transition to net zero.
- Championing Inclusion: We foster a diverse, inclusive culture where creativity and innovation thrive.
- Flexible and Hybrid Working: Our hybrid model supports balance, with part-time options and at least two office days weekly.
- Progressive Benefits: We offer green pensions, IVF support, private healthcare, and more for your well-being and growth.
Knowledge Paralegal in London employer: Bates Wells
Bates Wells is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work environment in the heart of London where collaboration and social impact are at the forefront of our mission. With a strong commitment to employee well-being, we provide flexible working arrangements, comprehensive health support, and green pensions, ensuring that our team thrives both personally and professionally. Join us to be part of a diverse and inclusive culture that values your growth and contributions.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Knowledge Paralegal in London
✨Get Involved in Law Societies
Join local law societies and attend their events – they're often a goldmine for networking and job opportunities in the legal field. Plus, it’s a great way to meet other budding lawyers and experienced solicitors who could provide vital insights and connections.
✨Tap into Online Legal Communities
Don’t underestimate the power of online platforms like LinkedIn and specific legal forums. Get active in discussions or share your thoughts on recent legal developments – this not only builds your visibility but also showcases your passion and knowledge in law.
✨Attend Career Fairs and Workshops
Look out for career fairs and workshops specifically focused on law. Many law firms, including Bates Wells, will be scouting for fresh talent, so bring your A-game and don’t shy away from making a memorable impression.
✨Leverage Your University’s Career Services
If you’re still in university or have recently graduated, latch onto your career services! They often have connections with law firms looking for graduates and can guide you through the application process tailored for the legal sector.
We think you need these skills to ace Knowledge Paralegal in London
Some tips for your application 🫡
Highlight Your Legal Knowledge:When applying for a full-time role in legal services at Bates Wells, make sure to demonstrate your understanding of key legal principles and areas of law relevant to the position. Include any specific coursework, modules, or certifications, like LPC or BPTC qualifications, that showcase your legal expertise directly on your CV.
Showcase Your Research Skills:In the legal field, strong research skills are crucial. Use your application to illustrate how you've utilised these skills in past studies or work experiences – whether that's through past internships or significant projects. Mention any legal databases or tools you’re proficient in, as this can give you an edge.
Tailor That Cover Letter!:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Make it personal by expressing your genuine interest in Bates Wells and the specific role of Knowledge Paralegal. Talk about why you want to be part of their team, how your unique experiences align with their values, and why you’re passionate about the legal sector.
Stay Formal but Friendly:While we all know the legal world can be pretty formal, don’t be afraid to let a bit of personality shine through in your written application. Use a respectful tone, but feel free to inject a little warmth; this approach can help you stand out and show you're a great fit for Bates Wells’s culture!
How to prepare for a job interview at Bates Wells
✨Know Your Legal Principles
Brush up on foundational legal principles relevant to the specific area of law you’re applying for, whether it’s corporate, criminal, or family law. We might get asked situational questions to test your knowledge, so being articulate about key concepts will make you stand out.
✨Be Ready for Case Studies
Full-time legal roles often involve case studies during interviews. Prepare to analyse a hypothetical case and discuss your approach to it. Practising this with a peer or mentor can help us refine our reasoning and articulate a solid legal argument.
✨Show Off Your Research Skills
As legal professionals, strong research skills are a must. Have examples ready of how you've effectively used legal databases or conducted thorough legal research in your past experiences. It's a great way to demonstrate your readiness for the role at Bates Wells.
✨Exude Professionalism and Confidence
In the legal field, professionalism is key. During the interview, we should maintain good eye contact and communicate clearly to show that we’re not just knowledgeable, but also confident. This can make a positive impression on your potential colleagues at Bates Wells.
