At a Glance
- Tasks: Assist with legal administration, document work, and marketing support in a dynamic law firm.
- Company: Join Jonathan Lea Network, a modern law firm with a collaborative culture.
- Benefits: Flexible part-time hours, mentorship, and a clear pathway to qualification.
- Other info: Enjoy a supportive environment with regular team events and social activities.
- Why this job: Gain real client experience and develop your legal career while studying.
- Qualifications: Strong law degree and preparation for SQE 1 and/or SQE 2 required.
The predicted salary is between 19800 - 24800 € per year.
Part-time | 2–4 days per week (15–30 hours) | Office-based, Haywards Heath, Mid-Sussex
Salary: £24,800 per annum (full-time equivalent, pro rata)
Jonathan Lea Network (JLN) is seeking a high-calibre recent law graduate who is currently studying for the SQE 1 and/or SQE 2 examinations and looking for a part-time Legal Assistant role alongside their studies. This position is designed as a long-term pathway into qualification. We expect to recruit one or two Legal Assistants each year who demonstrate strong academic ability, commercial awareness and long-term potential.
The successful candidate will initially join us on a flexible part-time basis and, following completion of the SQE, will typically progress to a full-time fee-earning paralegal role, with a view to qualifying as a solicitor with the firm in due course.
About JLN
JLN is a modern, forward-thinking, full-service law firm based in Mid-Sussex, advising clients across England and Wales and internationally. We are known for combining strong technical expertise with a personable, pragmatic approach to client service. We are committed to high-quality legal work within a collaborative, supportive and open working environment, supported by a strong team culture and active social side. Our values are central to how we operate:
- Responsive and client-centred
- Expertly insightful
- Personable and collaborative
- Innovative and technology-enabled
The Role
This is a varied and intellectually engaging role combining legal administration, document work and marketing support. The working pattern is flexible (2, 3 or 4 days per week, 15–30 hours), and we will accommodate study commitments around SQE preparation. Upon successful completion of the SQE and subject to performance, the role is expected to transition into a full-time position, progressing to fee-earning paralegal work and ultimately qualification within the firm.
Core Responsibilities
- Client & Matter Administration
- Opening and closing client files
- Conducting AML, KYC and conflict checks
- Maintaining case management systems
- Supporting compliance and regulatory processes
- Document Work
- Drafting basic legal documents (letters, forms, court documents)
- Proofreading and formatting documents
- Preparing bundles for court and tribunals
- Assisting with legal research
- Content & Communication
- Drafting website copy, blogs and legal updates
- Creating newsletters and client alerts
- Supporting LinkedIn and other social media activity
- Brand & Profile Building
- Maintaining the firm's website and marketing materials
- Supporting brochure updates and client-facing documentation
- Events & Networking
- Assisting with seminars, webinars and client events
- Managing invitations and follow-ups
- Supporting sponsorships and partnerships
The Ideal Candidate
We are looking for a candidate who demonstrates strong academic ability and long-term potential. You will have:
- A strong law degree (or equivalent)
- Current preparation for SQE 1 and/or SQE 2
- Evidence of academic achievement
- Interests, achievements or commitments outside of studying
- Experience managing part-time work alongside studies
You will be:
- Highly detail-oriented
- Professional and discreet
- Organised with excellent time management skills
- Confident using legal terminology
- A clear and precise written communicator
- Creative but commercially aware
- Digitally confident with awareness of marketing principles (SEO, analytics, social media)
- Enthusiastic and proficient in the use of AI tools
An interest in business development and commercial legal practice will be advantageous.
Why Join JLN?
This role offers more than traditional legal administration. It is designed as a structured development pathway into qualification within a modern law firm. You will benefit from:
- Exposure to a broad range of legal practice areas
- Early responsibility and real client involvement
- Mentorship from experienced solicitors
- Hands‐on experience with AI and legal technology
- A collaborative and supportive working environment
- A clear progression pathway toward qualification
- 22 days' annual leave (pro rata, rising to 25 days with service)
- Salary sacrifice options
- WPA Precision Corporate Healthcare (subject to eligibility)
- Regular team events and social activities
Location
This role is office-based in Haywards Heath and is best suited to candidates located in Surrey, Sussex or Kent.
How to Apply
If you would like to apply, please send your CV and covering letter to: Please include details of your academic results and any extracurricular achievements or work experience.
Legal Assistant (SQE Pathway – Part-Time) in Haywards Heath employer: Jonathanlea
Jonathan Lea Network (JLN) is an exceptional employer for aspiring legal professionals, offering a unique part-time Legal Assistant role that aligns with your SQE studies. With a commitment to mentorship and professional growth, JLN provides a collaborative and supportive environment where you can gain hands-on experience in various legal practice areas while enjoying flexible working hours and a clear pathway to qualification as a solicitor. Located in the vibrant town of Haywards Heath, you'll also benefit from a strong team culture and regular social activities, making it an ideal place to launch your legal career.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Legal Assistant (SQE Pathway – Part-Time) in Haywards Heath
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your university's career services or alumni network. They can connect you with professionals in the legal field who might have insights or even job leads.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by practising common legal questions and scenarios. We recommend doing mock interviews with friends or mentors to build your confidence and refine your answers.
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your passion for law during interviews. Discuss your SQE journey and any relevant projects or experiences that highlight your commitment and skills. This will help you stand out!
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, it shows you’re genuinely interested in joining our team at JLN.
We think you need these skills to ace Legal Assistant (SQE Pathway – Part-Time) in Haywards Heath
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV reflects the skills and experiences that align with the Legal Assistant role. Highlight any relevant coursework, part-time jobs, or extracurricular activities that showcase your legal knowledge and organisational skills.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you're passionate about law and how this role fits into your career path. Be sure to mention your current SQE studies and how they relate to the position.
Showcase Your Attention to Detail:As a Legal Assistant, attention to detail is key. Make sure your application is free from typos and errors. This not only shows your professionalism but also your commitment to high-quality work, which we value at JLN.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply directly through our website for a smoother process. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets the attention it deserves, and you’ll find all the details you need right there!
How to prepare for a job interview at Jonathanlea
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you’re well-versed in the basics of legal terminology and concepts relevant to the role. Brush up on your SQE materials and be ready to discuss how your studies relate to the tasks you'll be handling as a Legal Assistant.
✨Show Your Passion
Demonstrate your enthusiasm for law and the specific areas JLN focuses on. Talk about any relevant projects or experiences that highlight your interest in commercial legal practice and how you see yourself growing within the firm.
✨Be Organised
Prepare a list of questions to ask during the interview. This shows you’re proactive and genuinely interested in the role. Think about what you want to know regarding the firm's culture, mentorship opportunities, and how they support your SQE preparation.
✨Highlight Your Skills
Emphasise your attention to detail and time management skills. Share examples from your studies or part-time work where you successfully managed multiple tasks or projects, showcasing your ability to balance responsibilities effectively.
