At a Glance
- Tasks: Support solicitors in family law matters and assist with case management.
- Company: Award-winning law firm known for its supportive culture and employee development.
- Benefits: Generous leave, hybrid working, well-being support, and professional growth opportunities.
- Other info: Flexible working environment with a focus on employee well-being and career progression.
- Why this job: Join a respected team and make a real difference in family law cases.
- Qualifications: GCSEs in English and Maths; law degree or relevant experience preferred.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 42000 € per year.
Paralegal – Childcare
Contract: Permanent
Salary: Dependant on experience
Office base: Wigan, WN3 5BA & St Helens, WA10 1QU – hybrid working after a period of training, minimum of 2-3 times a week in the office.
Hours: 35 hours per week, Monday to Friday, 9am to 5pm
Are you a law graduate looking for an exciting, new opportunity? Or are you an experienced paralegal looking to accelerate in your career? How would you like to work within our expert Family Law Team? What about working for a well-respected, Sunday Times best place to work firm who genuinely cares about your career and development?
The Role
As a Paralegal in our Family department, you’ll support solicitors and the department manager by assisting with a wide range of employment law matters. This is an amazing opportunity to join our knowledgeable, highly regarded Family Law Team, focusing on childcare cases. You will be engaged in varied and interesting work where you will learn all about the intricacies of Family Law. In this role you will be able to hone in on and develop fundamental skills whilst working alongside our reputable and well-respected Solicitors.
Key responsibilities:
- Advising clients and attending meetings where appropriate.
- Supporting solicitors with case management, including drafting legal documents and preparing bundles.
- Handling client and professional enquiries via phone, email, and post.
- Managing new business enquiries effectively.
- Arranging and attending conferences with Counsel; undertaking advocacy and hearings where appropriate.
- Organising workload to meet chargeable and non-chargeable targets under supervision.
- Performing administrative tasks and ensuring compliance with client care and Law Society rules.
- Contributing to practice development through blogging and networking.
- Identifying and acting on cross-referral opportunities within the firm.
About You
We welcome applicants with a wide range of strengths, thinking styles and lived experiences. We’re happy to discuss any workplace adjustments or support that would help you perform at your best, including communication preferences, assistive tools, or environmental changes. We’re looking for someone who can:
- Be highly adaptable and flexible, including with working hours.
- Stay calm under pressure and thrive on challenge.
- Be committed, hard-working, and discreet in a confidential environment.
- Work independently and collaboratively.
- Stay calm and focused during busy periods.
- Handle sensitive information professionally and confidentially.
- Communicate in a friendly, respectful and approachable way.
- Show a genuine interest in employment law and in developing a long-term career within this area.
Essential
You will need:
- 5 GCSEs including English and Maths (grade C / 4 or above).
- Confidence using computers and the ability to learn new systems with training.
- A strong understanding, experience or knowledge of family law/care proceedings work.
- Clear communication skills (written and verbal).
- Research skills and the ability to break down information logically.
- Organisational and time-management approaches that help you keep on top of tasks.
- The ability to meet deadlines with appropriate support.
Desirable
It’s helpful, but not essential, if you also have:
- Law Degree (ideally 2:1 or above) or relevant work experience.
- Experience assisting in family law, including public and private childcare cases.
- Understanding of family law and up-to-date legislation.
- Experience using case management systems.
- An understanding of Solicitors Accounts Rules.
- Awareness of client care and complaints procedures.
We also look for individuals who embody our brand values: approachable, flexible, inclusive, resilient and supportive.
Why Stephensons?
Stephensons is an award-winning, top-150 law firm with a strong commitment to training, development and employee wellbeing. We offer a supportive and collaborative working environment where you can grow professionally while maintaining a healthy work-life balance.
What Can We Offer?
Generous annual leave (increasing with service), salary sacrifice pension scheme, early monthly pay scheme, life assurance, hybrid working, holiday sale & purchase scheme, well-being package (financial, physical & mental health support), free parking, enhanced maternity & paternity pay, will writing service, season ticket & travel support, payroll giving scheme, social events & clubs, reward & recognition schemes, internal referral scheme, retail vouchers/cashback schemes, free eye tests, cycle to work scheme. Service-length conditions apply.
Paralegal - Family/Childcare employer: Stephensons Solicitors LLP
At Stephensons, we pride ourselves on being a top-150 law firm that prioritises employee development and well-being. Our supportive and collaborative work culture fosters professional growth while ensuring a healthy work-life balance, making it an ideal environment for both new law graduates and experienced paralegals looking to advance their careers in Family Law. With generous benefits, including hybrid working options and a strong commitment to training, we are dedicated to nurturing talent and creating a rewarding workplace experience in Wigan and St Helens.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Paralegal - Family/Childcare
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the legal field, attend events, and join relevant groups. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings or can put in a good word for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the firm and its Family Law Team. Understand their values and recent cases they've handled. This will help you tailor your answers and show that you're genuinely interested in working with them.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your communication skills! Whether it's answering common interview questions or discussing your experience, being clear and confident is key. Consider doing mock interviews with friends or mentors to get comfortable.
✨Tip Number 4
Don't forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, it shows you're serious about joining our amazing team at Stephensons.
We think you need these skills to ace Paralegal - Family/Childcare
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV is tailored to the Paralegal role in Family Law. Highlight any relevant experience or skills that match the job description, like your understanding of family law and your communication skills.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to express your genuine interest in the role and the firm. Mention why you want to work in Family Law and how you can contribute to our team.
Showcase Your Skills:Don’t forget to showcase your organisational and time-management skills in your application. We love candidates who can juggle tasks effectively, especially in a busy environment like ours!
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply through our website for a smoother process. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you don’t miss out on any important updates!
How to prepare for a job interview at Stephensons Solicitors LLP
✨Know Your Family Law Basics
Brush up on key concepts in family law, especially around childcare cases. Being able to discuss recent legislation or notable cases will show your genuine interest and understanding of the field.
✨Showcase Your Communication Skills
Since you'll be advising clients and handling sensitive information, practice clear and respectful communication. Prepare examples of how you've effectively communicated in previous roles or during your studies.
✨Demonstrate Adaptability
The role requires flexibility and the ability to stay calm under pressure. Think of situations where you successfully adapted to changes or managed multiple tasks, and be ready to share these experiences.
✨Prepare Questions for Them
Interviews are a two-way street! Prepare thoughtful questions about the Family Law Team and their approach to case management. This shows your enthusiasm and helps you gauge if the firm is the right fit for you.
