Paralegal - Data Law in London

What We Offer

• A culture of trust, autonomy and flexibility in how you work
• A supportive, collaborative team and approachable partners
• Strong development opportunities and exposure to high-quality work
• A competitive salary and excellent benefits

The Opportunity

Our Managed Legal Services (MLS) team is growing, and we’re looking for a detail-oriented Paralegal to support our expanding Data Subject Access Request (DSAR) service. Demand for DSAR support is increasing rapidly, and we are investing in a scalable, technology-enabled service that combines legal expertise with efficient delivery. This role offers the opportunity to join at an exciting stage of growth, with clear progression opportunities as the service evolves.

The Role

You will support the delivery of DSARs at scale, working closely with clients and internal teams to ensure legally compliant and efficient outcomes. You’ll also have the opportunity to support wider MLS work, including document review and contract management. This is a fast-paced, hands-on role suited to someone who is organised, proactive, and enjoys problem-solving.

Please note - This role will be based in one of our hubs in Birmingham, Bristol OR London.

Key Responsibilities

• Review and manage documents across various data sources (emails, messaging platforms, shared drives, HR systems)
• Use eDiscovery tools and work with third-party providers to support DSAR processing
• Handle DSAR responses, including data tagging, redaction (in line with UK GDPR exemptions), and maintaining audit trails
• Apply relevant legal exemptions (e.g. legal privilege, third-party data, excessive requests)
• Advise on scope, search methods, proportionality, and redaction approaches
• Proofread contracts and documents to ensure accuracy and consistency
• Create and maintain checklists, playbooks, and guidance materials
• Help develop and improve DSAR processes, policies, and templates
• Analyse and manage legal data
• Support wider document review and contract management work, including use of litigation support tools
• Summarise contracts and track key terms
• Carry out document redaction and pagination
• Assist with contract lifecycle management

Skills, Knowledge & Expertise

• At least 6 months’ experience in a similar role
• Experience with large-scale document review / eDisclosure
• Familiarity with document review platforms
• Good working knowledge of the Data Protection Act 2018 and UK GDPR
• Experience with case management systems (desirable, not essential)
• Strong IT skills and accurate typing
• Ability to manage deadlines and prioritise effectively
• High attention to detail with strong written and verbal communication skills
• Organised, proactive, and adaptable, with the ability to respond to changing priorities
• Comfortable working with multiple stakeholders at all levels
• Commercial awareness (desirable)
• A positive, committed team player with strong drive and initiative

Additional Information

We embrace agile working and offer a blended approach to where and how we work. We appreciate that people have different needs and preferences and we’re keen to be flexible, after all, we value what you do, not where you do it. We have the following hubs across the UK: Birmingham, Bristol, Edinburgh, Leeds, Leicester, Lincoln, London, Milton Keynes, Nottingham, Sheffield, Stratford upon Avon & Tunbridge Wells. Our standard office hours are Monday – Thursday 9.00am to 5.30pm and Friday 9.00am – 5.00pm. Due to the nature of this role candidates will need to be flexible in terms of working hours; in addition to our standard hours cover will be required during evenings and weekends.

Meet the Team

The Managed Legal Services team supports Shakespeare Martineau, Lime Solicitors and Corclaim with legal process management, paralegal support, client discovery, due diligence, data intelligence, knowledge management and client management services. The role of this team is to help improve efficiencies and the client experience by supporting our fee earning teams.

Equal opportunities

Shakespeare Martineau is a committed equal opportunities employer. We seek to attract, develop and retain talented people from a diverse range of backgrounds and cultures. We value and respect individuality and encourage a culture within our business where people can be themselves and be valued for their strengths and experiences. Everyone who either applies to or works for the firm is treated equally, regardless of their gender, age, ethnic origin, nationality, marital status, sexual orientation or religious beliefs.