At a Glance
- Tasks: Provide legal support, manage caseloads, and assist in court proceedings.
- Company: Harlow District Council, a vibrant local authority with a supportive team.
- Benefits: Competitive pay, professional development, and a dynamic work environment.
- Other info: Opportunity for growth in a thriving town with excellent transport links.
- Why this job: Gain hands-on legal experience while making a difference in your community.
- Qualifications: Experience in a legal setting and strong communication skills required.
The predicted salary is between 35880 - 35880 € per year.
Location: Harlow
Full time, Temporary – 37 Hours per Week
2-3 Month Contract
£17.25 PAYE
Closing Date: Monday 18th May 2026
Essex County Council (ECC) are delighted to be supporting Harlow Council to recruit a paralegal on a full-time, temporary basis. Please note that this post requires the successful individual to be based on site a minimum of 3 days per week. Harlow is a district of contrasts and an ideal location to both live and work. The town itself is thriving, with excellent shopping and leisure facilities for all ages. We have good road links to the M11 and M25 and excellent rail connections to London and Stansted Airport, just 35 minutes and 20 minutes away from Harlow respectively.
Purpose
To provide high-quality, timely and professional legal support to Harlow Council by managing a caseload of routine and some non-routine legal matters under supervision, supporting solicitors and lawyers across Legal Services, and contributing to the effective delivery of legal advice and representation.
Key Responsibilities
- Manage a personal caseload of routine and some non-routine legal matters under supervision.
- Provide clear, accurate and timely legal advice to internal council clients.
- Draft legal documentation, correspondence, pleadings, reports and instructions.
- Undertake legal research and analysis.
- Assist lawyers with the preparation and conduct of legal cases, including court and tribunal proceedings.
- Attend court or tribunal hearings, with counsel or alone where appropriate.
- Undertake basic advocacy on behalf of the Council where required.
- Prepare and manage court bundles and supporting documentation.
- Deliver briefs and file documentation with courts and counsel.
- Use legal case management systems and maintain accurate records.
- Comply with Lexcel and other applicable practice management standards.
- Contribute to meeting individual and team performance targets.
- Escalate legal, governance or reputational risks to senior officers as appropriate.
- Work cooperatively with colleagues and attend team meetings and briefings.
- Comply with council policies including health and safety, equality, data protection and codes of conduct.
- Undertake other duties appropriate to the grade.
Knowledge, Skills and Experience
Essential:
- Experience working in a legal environment, ideally within local government.
- Knowledge of at least one local authority legal practice area.
- Experience drafting legal documents and correspondence.
- Ability to manage competing priorities and meet deadlines.
- Strong written and verbal communication skills.
- Ability to explain legal issues clearly to non-legal colleagues.
- Good IT skills including use of case management systems.
Desirable:
- Experience of advocacy or support to litigation.
- Experience of residential/commercial property work.
- Understanding of local authority decision-making and governance.
- Familiarity with Lexcel or similar standards.
Paralegal – Harlow District Council in Essex employer: Carrington Blake Recruitment
Harlow District Council is an excellent employer, offering a supportive work environment where legal professionals can thrive. With a focus on employee growth and development, the council provides opportunities to manage diverse legal matters while enjoying the vibrant community of Harlow, which boasts excellent amenities and transport links. Join us for a meaningful career that contributes to the local community and enhances your professional skills.
Contact Detail:
Carrington Blake Recruitment Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Paralegal – Harlow District Council in Essex
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the legal field, especially those who have experience with local government. A friendly chat can lead to insider info about job openings or even a referral.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by brushing up on your legal knowledge and understanding of local authority practices. We recommend practising common interview questions and scenarios related to the role of a paralegal.
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your skills! Bring along examples of your previous work, like drafted documents or case studies, to demonstrate your capabilities during interviews. This will help you stand out from the crowd.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, we love seeing candidates who are proactive about their job search.
We think you need these skills to ace Paralegal – Harlow District Council in Essex
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter for the Paralegal role. Highlight your experience in a legal environment and any relevant skills that match the job description. We want to see how you fit into our team!
Show Off Your Legal Skills:When writing your application, emphasise your ability to draft legal documents and provide clear legal advice. Use examples from your past experiences to demonstrate your strong written communication skills. This is your chance to shine!
Be Clear and Concise:Keep your application straightforward and to the point. Avoid jargon and make sure your key points stand out. We appreciate clarity, so make it easy for us to see why you’re the right fit for the role.
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for the position. We can’t wait to hear from you!
How to prepare for a job interview at Carrington Blake Recruitment
✨Know Your Legal Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of local authority legal practices. Familiarise yourself with the specific areas of law that Harlow District Council deals with, as this will show your genuine interest and understanding of the role.
✨Showcase Your Communication Skills
Since you'll need to explain legal issues to non-legal colleagues, practice articulating complex legal concepts in simple terms. This will demonstrate your ability to communicate effectively, which is crucial for a paralegal.
✨Prepare for Practical Scenarios
Think about potential scenarios you might face in the role, such as drafting legal documents or managing a caseload. Be ready to discuss how you would handle these situations, showcasing your problem-solving skills and attention to detail.
✨Ask Insightful Questions
Prepare some thoughtful questions about the team dynamics, the types of cases you might work on, or the council's approach to legal challenges. This not only shows your enthusiasm but also helps you gauge if the role is the right fit for you.
