At a Glance
- Tasks: Assist in legal processes related to school attendance and children's education.
- Company: Portsmouth City Council, dedicated to safeguarding children and young people.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, part-time hours, and a supportive work environment.
- Other info: Office-based role with opportunities for professional growth.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in children's education while gaining valuable legal experience.
- Qualifications: Experience in statutory settings and strong knowledge of education law required.
The predicted salary is between 28239 - 32061 £ per year.
We are looking for a part time Para-Legal Officer to assist in fulfilling the Local Authority’s statutory responsibilities around school attendance, children missing education, elective home education, and children in employment. This role is part time currently working 16 hours per week.
The role of the Para Legal is to effectively assist in the discharge of the Local Authority's statutory functions relating to school attendance, children missing education, elective home education and children in employment.
Key responsibilities include:
- Preparing court files for cases involving irregular attendance and education supervision orders.
- Drafting legal documents such as witness statements, cost schedules, and background reports.
- Maintaining and updating legal monitoring systems, including E-files, databases, and Capita.
- Liaising with Legal Services, schools, professionals, and solicitors regarding legal proceedings.
- Attending or chairing meetings related to prosecutions and represent the service in court when required.
- Handling enquiries from schools, agencies, and members of the public.
The ideal candidate will need:
- Experience in a statutory setting and enforcement proceedings.
- Strong knowledge of education law and legal processes.
- Excellent literacy, numeracy, and attention to detail for drafting legal documents.
- Proficiency in Word, Excel, Outlook, and databases.
- Ability to manage a fast-paced workload, work independently, and meet deadlines.
- Strong communication skills for liaising with multiple stakeholders.
- Team player with experience in busy office environments.
Working Arrangements: This role is office based.
Right to Work: You must demonstrate that you have the Right to Work in the UK. No post will be offered without it. We are not able to offer sponsorship for this position.
Safeguarding: Portsmouth City Council is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, and young people, and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. Every post is subject to PCC and Portsmouth Safeguarding Children Partnership safer recruitment procedures. Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) at Standard/Enhanced level will be required prior to any offer of employment and this post is exempt from the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974. Please read the relevant DBS privacy notice before submitting any information.
Locations
Para Legal Officer in Hampshire, Portsmouth employer: Portsmouth City Council
Portsmouth City Council is an excellent employer, offering a supportive work culture that values collaboration and innovation. With a focus on employee growth, the council provides numerous training opportunities and a hybrid working model that promotes work-life balance, making it an ideal place for those seeking meaningful and rewarding employment in the public sector.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Para Legal Officer in Hampshire, Portsmouth
✨Leverage Your Local Law Community
Get involved with local legal societies or student law associations; they often have great networking events and workshops. It’s a brilliant way to meet practising lawyers and potentially get referred for part-time roles at firms like Portsmouth City Council.
✨Showcase Your Skills with Mock Trials
Participate in mock trial competitions or legal clinics while studying. This not only sharpens your skills but also gives you practical experiences to talk about in interviews—perfect for a part-time role in law!
✨Tap Into Internship Networks
Make use of university career services to find internships or part-time opportunities. Many law firms source talent directly from student pools, so getting your foot in the door can lead to a longer-term position at a place like Portsmouth City Council!
✨Apply Directly on Our Website
Don’t forget to check out Portsmouth City Council’s careers page for specific listings. Applying directly can often give you an edge—plus, we appreciate candidates who show interest in our firm specifically!
We think you need these skills to ace Para Legal Officer in Hampshire, Portsmouth
Some tips for your application 🫡
Highlight Relevant Law Experience:When applying for this part-time role, make sure to focus on any legal internships, placements, or volunteer work you've done. Even if it’s just shadowing a lawyer, let us know how these experiences shaped your understanding of law and legal services. Every bit counts and shows your commitment to the field!
Use Clear Legal Terminology:Since you’re applying for a position in law services, it’s important to use appropriate legal terminology in your CV and cover letter. This will not only demonstrate your knowledge but also show us that you’re comfortable with the language of the profession. Avoid jargon overload, though; clarity is key!
Show Your Availability:As this is a part-time position, don’t forget to clearly state your availability in your application. Let us know what days and hours you’re free to work, and make it easy for us to see how you’d fit into our team. The more specific, the better!
Tailor Your Cover Letter Just For Us:Your cover letter is a chance to shine! Make it personal and tailored specifically to our role at Portsmouth City Council. Talk about why you’re interested in legal services and how your experiences align with what we do. A sprinkle of passion goes a long way!
How to prepare for a job interview at Portsmouth City Council
✨Show Off Your Legal Knowledge
Brush up on key legal concepts and current events in the legal realm that may affect your role. Be ready to discuss any relevant case studies or examples, as this demonstrates your engagement with the law beyond just theoretical knowledge.
✨Prepare for Scenario-Based Questions
Expect to face scenario-based questions where you might be assessed on how you'd handle specific legal situations. Think about practical examples from your studies or previous experiences that highlight your problem-solving skills and ethical considerations.
✨Balance Your Expertise with Flexibility
As this is a part-time role, be prepared to discuss your time management skills and how you can juggle work with your studies or other commitments. Employers will want to see how you can contribute effectively while maintaining a flexible schedule.
✨Highlight Your Commitment to Continuous Learning
Conveying your dedication to ongoing education in the legal field gives a strong impression. Mention any additional courses, certifications, or workshops you've pursued that enhance your legal expertise, showing your motivation for growth in your career.
