Your Role
This is a fantastic opportunity to work as a paralegal within our Leeds Employment team. You’ll be supporting colleagues with a focus on contentious Employment Tribunal work, predominantly cases that are funded by Legal Expenses Insurance (LEI).
LEI is a dedicated area of work within our Leeds team so you’ll benefit from working closely with other colleagues who do similar work as you, as well as being part of the wider Leeds and Northern team. The types of cases are varied with a mix of Claimant and Respondent claims and can include multi‑party or high‑value claims and more straight‑forward dismissal, discrimination or wages claims. In all respects, you’ll have supervision and support in the cases you’re involved in from solicitors in the team. Working with colleagues and also having direct client contact on most matters, you’ll be able to extend your expertise in all areas of employment litigation and enhance your practical skills of communication, organisation, teamwork and efficiency.
It’s a busy role with plenty of opportunities for your professional development and you’ll be immediately making a significant contribution to how our LEI team delivers ongoing excellent service to our LEI clients.
About You
- Some previous Paralegal experience, preferably in employment law but subject area is not essential
- Great communication and organisational skills
- The ability to interact with clients and external organisations
- A friendly, enthusiastic and can‑do approach
Our Values
- To be pioneering with an imaginative outlook
- To be approachable and caring
- To be tenacious in the pursuit of our objectives
- To be efficient in the provision of our services
- To work with a foundation of integrity
If this sounds like you, we’d love to receive your application.
Our Benefits - What We Can Offer You
- 25 days holidays as standard plus bank holidays – you can ‘buy’ up to 35hrs of extra holiday too.
- Generous and flexible pension schemes.
- Volunteering days – two days of volunteering every year for a cause of your choice (fully paid).
- Westfield Health membership, offering refunds on medical services alongside our Aviva GP services.
- We also offer a wide range of well‑being initiatives to encourage positive mental health both in and out of the workplace and to make sure you’re fully supported. This includes our Flexible by Choice programme which gives our colleagues more choice over a hybrid way of working subject to role, team and client requirements.
- We’re proud that we’ve been recognised as one of the Sunday Times Best Places to Work 2025!
- Our responsible business programmes are fundamental to who we are and our purpose. We’re committed to being a diverse and inclusive workplace where our colleagues can flourish, and we have established a number of inclusion network groups across our business to support this aim.
- Our commitment to Social Responsibility, community investment activity and tackling climate change is a fundamental part of who we are. It’s made up of four strands: Our People, Our Community, Our Environment and Our Pro Bono.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Paralegal - Employment (LEI) - Leeds
✨Get Involved in Law Societies
Join local law societies and attend their events – they're often a goldmine for networking and job opportunities in the legal field. Plus, it’s a great way to meet other budding lawyers and experienced solicitors who could provide vital insights and connections.
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Don’t underestimate the power of online platforms like LinkedIn and specific legal forums. Get active in discussions or share your thoughts on recent legal developments – this not only builds your visibility but also showcases your passion and knowledge in law.
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Look out for career fairs and workshops specifically focused on law. Many law firms, including Irwin Mitchell, will be scouting for fresh talent, so bring your A-game and don’t shy away from making a memorable impression.
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If you’re still in university or have recently graduated, latch onto your career services! They often have connections with law firms looking for graduates and can guide you through the application process tailored for the legal sector.
Some tips for your application 🫡
Highlight Your Legal Knowledge:When applying for a full-time role in legal services at Irwin Mitchell, 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 Irwin Mitchell and the specific role of Paralegal - Employment (LEI) - Leeds. 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 Irwin Mitchell’s culture!
How to prepare for a job interview at Irwin Mitchell
✨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.
✨Show Off Your Research Skills
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 Irwin Mitchell.
✨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 Irwin Mitchell.
