At a Glance
- Tasks: Support the Dispute Resolution team with various legal matters and gain hands-on experience.
- Company: Dynamic commercial law firm in Brighton with a focus on litigation.
- Benefits: Competitive salary of £19,750 per annum and valuable legal experience.
- Other info: Full-time office-based role from September 2026 to June 2027.
- Why this job: Kickstart your legal career with practical experience in a busy law environment.
- Qualifications: Must be a law student eager to learn and develop key skills.
The predicted salary is between 19750 - 19750 € per year.
This placement scheme is ideal for law students undertaking a placement year as part of their degree. The role will run from September 2026 to June 2027 and is offered on a fixed‑term contract, full‑time basis. You will join our Dispute Resolution Department as a Paralegal, working closely with experienced paralegals, senior paralegals and solicitors. This placement provides hands‑on exposure to a varied and busy litigation practice, offering valuable insight into life within a commercial law firm.
Salary: £19,750 per annum
Please note that this is a fully office‑based role. There is no remote or hybrid working, and you will be required to attend the office in Brighton five days a week.
The Role
As a Paralegal Placement Student, you will support the Dispute Resolution team on a wide range of matters, including property litigation, debt recovery and general litigation. The role offers practical experience, responsibility under supervision, and the opportunity to develop key legal and professional skills.
Key Responsibilities
- Managing new enquiries and opening new case files
- Conducting Anti‑Money Laundering (AML) checks
- Supporting billing, invoicing and general financial administration
- Handling inbound calls from courts, clients and defendants
- Managing a supervised caseload of service charge and other litigation matters
- Assisting with the preparation of trial bundles, witness statements and hearing documentation
- Providing general administrative support, including filing, document management and photocopying
- Maintaining and updating case files using the firm’s case management system
About You
- Is committed to pursuing a career in law and keen to gain practical experience
- Has strong written and verbal communication skills
- Is organised, proactive and able to manage tasks effectively
- Demonstrates a positive attitude, adaptability and a willingness to learn
- Can work both independently and collaboratively as part of a team
Practical Details
Hours: Full‑time, Monday to Friday, 9.00am – 5.00pm
Suitable for: Someone at Uni, looking for a placement
Paralegal Uni Placement Year employer: Dean Wilson LLP
Join a dynamic and supportive team at our Brighton office, where you will gain invaluable hands-on experience in the legal field as a Paralegal during your placement year. Our firm fosters a collaborative work culture that prioritises professional growth, offering mentorship from experienced solicitors and paralegals, alongside a competitive salary of £19,750 per annum. This is an excellent opportunity for law students to immerse themselves in a busy litigation practice while developing essential skills in a vibrant coastal city.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Paralegal Uni Placement Year
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your university's career services and connect with alumni who are already in the legal field. They can offer insights and might even know about openings that aren't advertised yet.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by practising common questions and scenarios related to dispute resolution. We recommend doing mock interviews with friends or mentors to build your confidence and refine your answers.
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your enthusiasm for law during interviews. Share specific examples of what excites you about the role and how it aligns with your career goals. This will help you stand out as a passionate candidate!
✨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 take the initiative to engage directly with us.
We think you need these skills to ace Paralegal Uni Placement Year
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV is tailored to the Paralegal role. Highlight any relevant coursework, internships, or skills that align with the responsibilities mentioned in the job description. We want to see how your experiences make you a great fit for our Dispute Resolution team!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to express your passion for law and why you're excited about this placement. Be sure to mention specific aspects of the role that appeal to you and how you can contribute to our team.
Showcase Your Communication Skills:Since strong written communication is key for this role, ensure your application is clear, concise, and free of errors. We appreciate attention to detail, so take the time to proofread your documents before hitting send!
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the easiest way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it shows you’re proactive and keen to join our team!
How to prepare for a job interview at Dean Wilson LLP
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you brush up on the basics of dispute resolution and property litigation. Familiarise yourself with common legal terms and processes, as well as any recent cases that might be relevant. This will show your interviewers that you're genuinely interested in the role and have done your homework.
✨Showcase Your Skills
Prepare examples from your studies or previous experiences that highlight your organisational skills, communication abilities, and adaptability. Think about times when you've managed a project or worked in a team, and be ready to discuss how those experiences relate to the responsibilities of a paralegal.
✨Ask Smart Questions
Interviews are a two-way street, so come prepared with thoughtful questions about the firm and the role. Ask about the types of cases you'll be working on, the team dynamics, or opportunities for professional development. This shows that you're engaged and serious about the placement.
✨Dress the Part
Since this is a fully office-based role, make sure to dress professionally for your interview. A smart outfit not only makes a good impression but also helps you feel more confident. Remember, first impressions count!