Claims Against Public Authorities and Inquest Paralegal in London

Role: Claims Against Public Authorities and Inquest Caseworker / Paralegal

A leading Legal 500 firm is seeking a dedicated and experienced Caseworker / Paralegal to join its Claims Against Public Authorities team on a permanent basis.

Gemini Recruitment is currently partnering with a large and well-established law firm that serves both corporate entities and private individuals across more than 25 practice areas, with offices throughout London and across England and Wales. The firm is recognised and recommended by The Legal 500 and Chambers and Partners as a top-tier practice.

About the role:

We are seeking a talented and experienced caseworkers to join the Claims Against Public Authorities and Inquest department.

The successful candidate will conduct supervised casework and also support other lawyers in the department. You will be involved with case preparation generally and, as part of that role, will be expected to conduct legal research, take proofs of evidence from clients and witnesses, attend both court hearings and conferences.

Experience of Legal Aid Agency (LAA) funded casework is highly desirable. Previous CAPA and/or Inquest experience is advantageous. Previous experience in this specific area is highly desirable but all applications will be considered.

Main Responsibilities of the Role:

• Reporting to Supervising Solicitor and when necessary to Departmental Director
• Working cohesively within a team but also prepared to take responsibility for individual work.
• Attending clients, taking instructions and briefing and liaising with counsel, negotiating with defendant solicitors, the PPO, IOPC and other legal professionals.
• Drafting legal documents.
• Exercising financial control over work carried out, with particular regard to the conversion of work in progress and ensuring that billing targets are met.
• Ensuring Quality Control compliance as defined in the Office Manual in regard to Lexcel, Investors in People and any other quality mark implemented by the firm, dealing with noncompliance matters in an efficient and timely fashion.
• Supporting the successful development of the firm, in line with its Business Plan, this will require participation in marketing events to ensure the continuous growth of the Department, and that the turnover target set for your department is achieved.
• Dealing with any complaints received on your cases.
• Assisting with audit enquiries, when applicable
• Carrying out any other reasonable and relevant task required by Management

Key Skills Required:

• Minimum 1 year of paralegal practice required; experience in a claims against public authorities department is highly desirable.
• Intelligence and demonstrable experience relevant to this role
• Experience working on Legal Aid cases and Litigation is essential (Ideally within Inquests/CAPA)
• Excellent organisational skills, with the ability to prioritise tasks and manage time effectively
• Familiarity with the Legal Aid Agency’s online CCMS system would be an advantage
• Legal skills and knowledge, Negotiation skills and Analytical skills
• You must be a good administrator, capable of ordering documents, dealing with new telephone and email enquiries and completing legal aid/controlled work documentation.
• Excellent IT Skills -familiar with Microsoft Office applications and document management skills

Why Join Us?

• Work with one of the UK’s leading law firms recognised for excellence
• Be part of a diverse, inclusive, friendly and welcoming workforce committed to equal opportunities
• Access ongoing professional development and training

What we offer:

• Competitive salary
• The opportunity to join a heavyweight civil liberties firm which promotes a healthy collegiate environment in which to do great work, grow, be supported and be yourself
• Work within a friendly, collaborative and cohesive team
• Excellent progression opportunities
• Support for appropriate legal awards/recognition

This list is not exhaustive and there may be other duties as reasonably required.

Benefits:

The Company offers a competitive salary and a comprehensive benefits package designed to support employee wellbeing, professional development, and career progression.

On offer is an attractive salary package, a supportive team environment and real prospects for promotion. The Company will allow hybrid-working in accordance with the company policy.

Company culture:

The firm offers a supportive and collaborative working environment where professional development and career progression are actively encouraged.

Commitment:

The firm is committed to diversity, inclusion, and equal opportunities, ensuring its workforce reflects the communities it serves. The recruitment process is conducted in accordance with GDPR and all relevant legislation. Any required CRB/DBS checks will be undertaken to confirm eligibility to work in the UK and suitability for the role.

About Gemini Recruitment:

Gemini Recruitment is a leading specialist legal recruitment agency, working with Solicitors, Legal Executives, Trainee Solicitors, Paralegals, and Legal Support professionals across the UK. With extensive knowledge of the legal market, Gemini Recruitment provides candidates with expert guidance and access to outstanding career opportunities.