At a Glance
- Tasks: Assist in managing client enquiries and case updates in Prison Law.
- Company: Join Hodge Jones & Allen LLP, a leading law firm with a supportive culture.
- Benefits: Enjoy generous leave, wellbeing support, and professional development opportunities.
- Other info: Dynamic team environment with opportunities for career growth.
- Why this job: Make a difference in clients' lives while gaining valuable legal experience.
- Qualifications: Previous legal admin experience and strong communication skills required.
The predicted salary is between 25650 - 31350 £ per year.
Hodge Jones & Allen LLP are looking to recruit a full-time Legal Assistant to join our busy Prison Law team, within our Crime department.
This role will be office based, across our Wandsworth and Euston sites.
DUTIES AND KEY RESPONSIBILITIES
Duties will vary in importance and priority, depending on circumstances and the needs of the business at any particular time, but will include the following key responsibilities:
- Receiving incoming new enquiry calls from those seeking HJA’s legal services in the practice area of Prison Law.
- Receiving a high volume of incoming calls from current clients, updating them on their case, advising them on the parole process and informing them of next steps.
- Making outgoing calls to the family members and partners of clients, as appropriate.
- Completing accurate written attendance notes of calls and ensuring they are logged on the clients’ electronic file using the appropriate IT systems.
- Writing and sending letters to clients, to provide updates on their cases.
- Handling incoming post at the Wandsworth office.
- Opening files.
- Scheduling appointments and managing the team diary.
- Regularly liaising with the parole board, caseworkers and the prison service.
- Overseeing all administrative functions for the team.
- Liaising with and taking instructions from fee earners.
- Any other duties as necessary.
- Previous administrative experience in a legal role.
- Experience call handling in a professional environment.
- Experience liaising with legal clients.
- Relevant legal qualifications, such as LLB, LLM, LPC, SQE etc.
- Ability to handle a high volume of incoming client calls and interact with a diverse clientele, in a sensitive and professional manner.
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
- Ability to use own initiative to support the team.
We offer a competitive and comprehensive benefits package designed to support your well-being, work–life balance and professional development, including:
- Generous annual leave (22–27 days depending on role), plus Christmas shutdown and additional birthday leave
- Extra paid leave for volunteering, moving house and study (up to 5 days)
- Long service recognition leave at 10, 15 and 20 years
- Pension scheme (3% employer contribution, 5% employee, with salary sacrifice option)
- Life assurance (2x salary) and Group Income Protection (up to state pension age)
- Enhanced maternity and paternity pay (subject to qualifying service)
- Wellbeing support, including Mental Health Champions, First Aiders and an Employee Assistance Programme
- Cycle to Work scheme and season ticket loan (post-probation)
- Employee referral bonus scheme
- Discounted legal services and access to an extensive Employee Benefits Portal (gym membership, health plans, private medical insurance, dental, cinema and retail discounts)
- Eye care contributions
- Complimentary office fruit deliveries twice weekly
- On‑site social space with pool table and subsidised bar
- #J-18808-Ljbffr
Crime Legal Assistant - Prison Law employer: Hodge Jones & Allen LLP
Hodge Jones & Allen LLP is an exceptional employer, renowned for its supportive work culture and commitment to employee well-being. Located in a vibrant area, the firm not only offers competitive benefits but also prioritises professional development, ensuring that team members have ample opportunities for growth within the legal field. Joining our Family team means being part of a collaborative environment where your contributions are valued and your career can flourish.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Crime Legal Assistant - Prison Law
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We think you need these skills to ace Crime Legal Assistant - Prison Law
Some tips for your application 🫡
Highlight Your Legal Knowledge:When applying for a full-time role in legal services at Hodge Jones & Allen LLP, make sure to demonstrate your understanding of key legal principles and areas of law relevant to the position. Include any specific coursework, modules, or certifications, like LPC or BPTC qualifications, that showcase your legal expertise directly on your CV.
Showcase Your Research Skills:In the legal field, strong research skills are crucial. Use your application to illustrate how you've utilised these skills in past studies or work experiences – whether that's through past internships or significant projects. Mention any legal databases or tools you’re proficient in, as this can give you an edge.
Tailor That Cover Letter!:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Make it personal by expressing your genuine interest in Hodge Jones & Allen LLP and the specific role of Crime Legal Assistant - Prison Law. Talk about why you want to be part of their team, how your unique experiences align with their values, and why you’re passionate about the legal sector.
Stay Formal but Friendly:While we all know the legal world can be pretty formal, don’t be afraid to let a bit of personality shine through in your written application. Use a respectful tone, but feel free to inject a little warmth; this approach can help you stand out and show you're a great fit for Hodge Jones & Allen LLP’s culture!
How to prepare for a job interview at Hodge Jones & Allen LLP
✨Know Your Legal Principles
Brush up on foundational legal principles relevant to the specific area of law you’re applying for, whether it’s corporate, criminal, or family law. We might get asked situational questions to test your knowledge, so being articulate about key concepts will make you stand out.
✨Be Ready for Case Studies
Full-time legal roles often involve case studies during interviews. Prepare to analyse a hypothetical case and discuss your approach to it. Practising this with a peer or mentor can help us refine our reasoning and articulate a solid legal argument.
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As legal professionals, strong research skills are a must. Have examples ready of how you've effectively used legal databases or conducted thorough legal research in your past experiences. It's a great way to demonstrate your readiness for the role at Hodge Jones & Allen LLP.
✨Exude Professionalism and Confidence
In the legal field, professionalism is key. During the interview, we should maintain good eye contact and communicate clearly to show that we’re not just knowledgeable, but also confident. This can make a positive impression on your potential colleagues at Hodge Jones & Allen LLP.