At a Glance
- Tasks: Join our dynamic Construction Team, managing commercial construction work and client relationships.
- Company: BCLP is a top-ranked law firm known for its expertise in Real Estate and Construction law.
- Benefits: Enjoy career progression, training support, and the chance to work on iconic projects.
- Why this job: Be part of a successful team with innovative practices and a diverse client base.
- Qualifications: 1PQE or extensive paralegal experience in construction law is required; passion is key!
- Other info: Location agnostic role; we value diversity and inclusivity in our workforce.
The predicted salary is between 28800 - 48000 £ per year.
A new opportunity has emerged that builds on the continued success story of our Southampton office! You will be joining a partner and an experienced associate in growing the Southampton Construction Team and will yourself be anywhere from Paralegal up to 3 PQE level.
BCLP’s Real Estate department is consistently ranked number one by the legal directories across multiple disciplines. We combine key sector knowledge with unparalleled technical ability and commercial focus, to deliver clients the best possible support and guidance. Key to this success story is ongoing investment in our market-leading Construction team, which continues to expand, with growth in our Southampton office central to our strategy. The Southampton office combines with our offices in London and Manchester to give a broad and deep capability across the sector. There is strong collaboration between teams with matters being resourced seamlessly between locations, drawing on different practices and skills. Through a mixture of new technology and innovative working methods, we are able to offer efficient, cost effective and tailored service to our clients. Our enviable, blue chip client base creates exciting opportunities to advise on iconic buildings, essential UK-wide infrastructure and international projects.
We are looking for a Construction specialist who want to be part of our stable, perennially successful team. We offer reliable and transparent prospects for career progression and pride ourselves in our commitment to your training, whatever your level. You will be nurtured and supported in one of the biggest and best UK Construction teams, blessed with top resources and global capabilities. You will grow your legal knowledge, continue your personal development, and foster your own relationships with clients. In short, forge out a fulfilling career at a top firm!
Appropriate to your skills, experience and aspirations, we will involve you in a broad portfolio of commercial construction work, managing your own matters and advising as part of our wider client teams. You will have an aptitude to learn and apply innovative, IT based solutions to legal practice including AI-based legal software and client service platforms. Consultant appointments, building contracts and warranties will be your building blocks, with JCT, NEC or FIDIC experience key, ensuring client interests are protected and that all relevant laws are adhered to. You will draft and negotiate a range of other construction documents, such as letters of intent, assignments, novation agreements, performance bonds and guarantees. You will have the opportunity to work both on development projects and Real Estate transactions, and learn from our property, planning, corporate, finance, litigation or tax colleagues. You will begin to develop client relationships of your own, and your professional network, acting as the main point of contact and trusted adviser.
As we are opening a range of roles, those with a passion for construction law should apply without delay. A minimum of 1PQE or deep paralegal experience and the potential to qualify is our base. For more experienced lawyers the opportunities are even greater and we welcome those returning to the profession or seeking to step away from a City role. In all cases, solid commercial construction experience with a knowledge of key areas of construction law would be expected, but complementary experience is also valued.
Required Skills:
- Analytical and drafting skills
- Ability to provide clear, concise, practical advice
- Flexibility and adaptability with an ability to manage your time effectively
- Great soft skills and eagerness to deliver premium client service
This role is ‘location agnostic’ but an affinity to the South Coast would be a plus. We value in-house experience at least as highly as experience in private practice.
At Bryan Cave Leighton Paisner we understand the value of a diverse workforce and we believe people perform at their best when they can truly be themselves at work. We aim to create an inclusive environment where all our employees are valued, motivated and able to be themselves. In order to provide the best possible service to our diverse client base, we are committed to recruiting, retaining, rewarding and developing our people with regard to their abilities and contributions and without reference to their background, gender, gender identity or expression, ethnic origin, age, religion, sexual orientation, socio-economic status, political belief, disability or any other protected characteristic.
Contact Detail:
BCLP Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Construction Legal Opportunities (Paralegal to 3PQE)
✨Tip Number 1
Network with professionals in the construction law field. Attend industry events, webinars, or local meetups to connect with potential colleagues and mentors who can provide insights into the role and the firm.
✨Tip Number 2
Familiarise yourself with the latest trends and technologies in construction law, especially AI-based legal software. Demonstrating your knowledge of these tools during interviews can set you apart from other candidates.
✨Tip Number 3
Research BCLP’s recent projects and their approach to construction law. Being able to discuss specific cases or initiatives during your conversations will show your genuine interest in the firm and its work.
✨Tip Number 4
Consider reaching out to current or former employees on platforms like LinkedIn. They can provide valuable insights about the company culture and what it takes to succeed in the Southampton Construction Team.
We think you need these skills to ace Construction Legal Opportunities (Paralegal to 3PQE)
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights relevant experience in construction law, including any specific projects or roles that demonstrate your analytical and drafting skills. Emphasise your ability to provide clear, concise advice and your familiarity with JCT, NEC, or FIDIC contracts.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: In your cover letter, express your passion for construction law and explain why you want to join the Southampton Construction Team. Mention how your background aligns with their focus on innovative solutions and client service.
Showcase Soft Skills: Highlight your soft skills in both your CV and cover letter. The role requires flexibility, adaptability, and great interpersonal skills, so provide examples of how you've successfully managed client relationships or worked collaboratively in a team.
Proofread and Edit: Before submitting your application, thoroughly proofread your documents. Ensure there are no spelling or grammatical errors, and that your writing is clear and professional. A polished application reflects your attention to detail, which is crucial in legal work.
How to prepare for a job interview at BCLP
✨Know Your Construction Law
Make sure you brush up on key areas of construction law, especially JCT, NEC, and FIDIC contracts. Being able to discuss these topics confidently will show your expertise and passion for the field.
✨Demonstrate Your Soft Skills
This role requires great soft skills, so be prepared to showcase your ability to communicate clearly and provide practical advice. Think of examples from your past experiences where you've successfully managed client relationships or resolved conflicts.
✨Show Your Adaptability
The firm values flexibility and adaptability, so be ready to discuss how you've managed your time effectively in previous roles. Highlight any experiences where you've had to adjust to changing circumstances or learn new technologies quickly.
✨Express Your Eagerness to Learn
Since this position involves ongoing training and personal development, convey your enthusiasm for learning and growing within the firm. Share specific examples of how you've pursued professional development in the past.