At a Glance
- Tasks: Support senior caseworkers and manage case files in Criminal Defence.
- Company: Bhatia Best, a leading law firm in the East Midlands.
- Benefits: Gain valuable experience and work towards a Training Contract.
- Why this job: Kickstart your legal career in a dynamic and supportive environment.
- Qualifications: Law graduate or working towards LPC/SQE qualification.
- Other info: No prior experience needed; perfect for recent graduates!
The predicted salary is between 28800 - 43200 £ per year.
Bhatia Best are a leading firm based in the East Midlands who specialise in Criminal Defence, Family Law, Personal Injury, Public Law and Community Care. We have an exciting opportunity for a Paralegal to join our busy Criminal Defence Department at our Derby office.
JOB PURPOSE: Advise and represent clients. Maintain efficiency and profitability of the Department. Progress with a view to securing a Training Contract. Undertake fee earning responsibilities to support principal caseworkers.
DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:
- Support senior caseworkers in progression and management of case files.
- Act as fee earner undertaking tasks delegated by senior caseworkers.
- Undertake legal research and drafting of proformas, court documents as necessary.
- Comply with SQM (Specialist Quality Mark) and all internal transaction criteria and procedures.
- Assist and participate with training initiatives taken by the firm.
- Act as “next friend” and promote training initiatives of new recruits and promoted staff.
- Comply with the firm’s Office Manual.
- Maintain client confidentiality and legal professional privilege.
- Actively promote (PR function) office relations with clients, their families, and possible new clients.
PERSON PROFILE:
SKILLS: Confident demeanour. Good oral and written communication. Grasp of legal procedures, court protocol and rules of evidence. Ability to record meticulously. Ability to attract clients and referrals. Cost awareness and meticulous ability to record & document.
KNOWLEDGE: Law graduate and with successful completion/working towards LPC or SQE qualification.
EXPERIENCE: No prior experience envisaged. Initial step into private practice. Work within practice, industry supplemental to academic training. Computer or IT familiarity. Dealing with the public.
Office Hours: Monday to Friday, 9:00 until 17:30 with one hour for lunch.
Paralegal – Criminal Defence – Derby employer: Bhatia Best Limited
Contact Detail:
Bhatia Best Limited Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Paralegal – Criminal Defence – Derby
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Get out there and connect with people in the legal field. Attend events, join online forums, or even reach out to alumni from your university. You never know who might have a lead on a paralegal position!
✨Tip Number 2
Practice your interview skills. Mock interviews can be a game changer. Grab a mate or use online resources to simulate the real deal. The more comfortable you are, the better you'll perform when it counts!
✨Tip Number 3
Show off your research skills! When you land an interview, make sure to know about Bhatia Best and their work in Criminal Defence. Tailor your answers to reflect how you can contribute to their team and impress them with your knowledge.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, we love seeing candidates who take the initiative to engage directly with us. Don’t miss out on this opportunity!
We think you need these skills to ace Paralegal – Criminal Defence – Derby
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV is tailored to the Paralegal role. Highlight any relevant coursework or projects that showcase your understanding of criminal law and legal procedures. We want to see how your background fits with what we do at Bhatia Best!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you're passionate about criminal defence and how you can contribute to our team. Keep it professional but let your personality come through – we love a bit of character!
Showcase Your Skills: In your application, make sure to highlight your communication skills and attention to detail. These are key for a Paralegal role. Give examples of how you've demonstrated these skills in your studies or any relevant experiences.
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it shows you’re keen on joining our team at Bhatia Best!
How to prepare for a job interview at Bhatia Best Limited
✨Know Your Legal Stuff
Brush up on your knowledge of criminal law and procedures. Familiarise yourself with key concepts, recent cases, and the specific legal frameworks relevant to the role. This will not only help you answer questions confidently but also show your genuine interest in the field.
✨Showcase Your Communication Skills
As a paralegal, you'll need to communicate effectively with clients and colleagues. Practice articulating your thoughts clearly and concisely. Consider doing mock interviews with friends or family to refine your verbal communication and ensure you come across as confident and professional.
✨Demonstrate Your Attention to Detail
Since the role involves meticulous record-keeping and documentation, be prepared to discuss how you ensure accuracy in your work. Bring examples from your studies or any relevant experiences where attention to detail was crucial. This will highlight your suitability for the position.
✨Ask Insightful Questions
Prepare thoughtful questions about the firm and the role. Inquire about the types of cases you might work on, the team dynamics, or opportunities for professional development. This shows your enthusiasm for the position and helps you gauge if the firm is the right fit for you.