Childcare Paralegal

Childcare Paralegal

Full-Time 30000 - 30000 £ / year (est.) No home office possible
TipTopJob

At a Glance

  • Tasks: Support fee earners in public law children matters and manage court documentation.
  • Company: Progressive law firm dedicated to child protection and supporting vulnerable families.
  • Benefits: Competitive salary, professional development, and clear progression towards becoming a Child Care Solicitor.
  • Other info: Join a supportive team in a modern facility with excellent career growth opportunities.
  • Why this job: Make a real difference in the lives of vulnerable children and families while building your legal career.
  • Qualifications: Strong drafting skills, empathy, and a law degree or equivalent qualification preferred.

The predicted salary is between 30000 - 30000 £ per year.

The Paralegal will provide specialist support to fee earners across a broad range of public law children matters, including care proceedings under the Children Act 1989, pre‑proceedings under the Public Law Outline and urgent applications such as emergency protection orders, supervision orders and special guardianship orders.

The role involves assisting with the preparation, filing and service of court documents including statements, chronologies, threshold documents, Scott Schedules, position statements and trial bundles in accordance with the Family Procedure Rules 2010 and PD27A. The successful candidate will manage case timetables, track deadlines and ensure compliance with all court orders and procedural requirements. The role also includes drafting attendance notes, instructions to counsel and experts and PLO correspondence.

The Paralegal will liaise regularly with vulnerable clients, local authorities, CAFCASS, Children's Guardians, counsel and experts, ensuring a trauma‑informed and sensitive approach at all times, and will handle collation of evidence, preparation of e‑bundles, compliance with disclosure and data‑protection obligations and assistance with Legal Aid funding applications and CCMS processes.

The Candidate

We seek a candidate with strong drafting and organisational skills, able to manage competing deadlines and prepare accurate court documentation within a fast‑paced legal environment. Previous experience in family law, local authority work or legal aid matters would be advantageous, but training will be provided. The ideal candidate is confident communicating with vulnerable clients and multi‑agency professionals, adopting a calm, empathetic and professional approach. A law degree, GDL, CILEX or equivalent qualification is desirable, alongside strong IT proficiency and experience using case‑management systems and e‑bundling software.

The firm is particularly interested in candidates who demonstrate commitment, resilience and a genuine desire to build a career in child protection law, with a clear progression pathway towards qualification as a Child Care Solicitor and potential future membership of the Law Society Children's Panel.

The Firm

The firm is a progressive and ambitious law practice with a strong public law children practice, committed to supporting vulnerable individuals and families. The practice operates within a supportive and collaborative environment, encouraging professional development and offering clear opportunities for progression. The organisation is Lexcel accredited and maintains a strong focus on compliance, quality and client service. The team is based in a modern, city facility in Sunderland.

Childcare Paralegal employer: TipTopJob

As a progressive law practice located in Sunderland, we pride ourselves on being an excellent employer that prioritises the professional growth of our team members. Our supportive and collaborative work culture fosters development opportunities, particularly for those passionate about child protection law, with clear pathways to qualification as a Child Care Solicitor. We are committed to maintaining a trauma-informed approach while providing essential legal support to vulnerable clients, ensuring that our employees find meaningful and rewarding careers in a Lexcel accredited environment.
TipTopJob

Contact Detail:

TipTopJob Recruiting Team

StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫

We think this is how you could land Childcare Paralegal

✨Tip Number 1

Network like a pro! Reach out to professionals in the childcare law field on LinkedIn or at local legal events. We can’t stress enough how important it is to make connections that could lead to job opportunities.

✨Tip Number 2

Prepare for interviews by practising common questions related to childcare law. We recommend role-playing with a friend or using online resources to get comfortable discussing your skills and experiences.

✨Tip Number 3

Showcase your passion for child protection law during interviews. We want to see your commitment and genuine interest in making a difference in vulnerable children's lives—let that shine through!

✨Tip Number 4

Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, we love seeing candidates who take the initiative to engage directly with us.

We think you need these skills to ace Childcare Paralegal

Drafting Skills
Organisational Skills
Time Management
Knowledge of Family Law
Experience with Legal Aid Matters
Communication Skills
Empathy
IT Proficiency
Case Management Systems
E-Bundling Software
Attention to Detail
Compliance Knowledge
Data Protection Awareness
Collaboration Skills
Resilience

Some tips for your application 🫡

Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter for the Childcare Paralegal role. Highlight your relevant experience in family law and any specific skills that match the job description. We want to see how you fit into our team!

Showcase Your Skills: Emphasise your strong drafting and organisational skills in your application. Mention any experience with court documents or case management systems, as these are key for the role. We love seeing candidates who can manage competing deadlines!

Communicate Confidently: Since you'll be liaising with vulnerable clients and professionals, it's important to convey your communication skills. Share examples of how you've handled sensitive situations in the past. We appreciate a calm and empathetic approach!

Apply Through Our Website: Don't forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for the role. We can’t wait to hear from you!

How to prepare for a job interview at TipTopJob

✨Know Your Legislation

Familiarise yourself with the Children Act 1989 and the Family Procedure Rules 2010. Being able to discuss these laws confidently will show your understanding of the role and its requirements.

✨Showcase Your Drafting Skills

Prepare examples of court documents you've worked on, even if they're from your studies or previous roles. Highlight your attention to detail and ability to manage deadlines effectively.

✨Demonstrate Empathy

Since you'll be working with vulnerable clients, think of ways to convey your empathetic approach during the interview. Share experiences where you've successfully communicated with sensitive individuals or managed challenging situations.

✨Ask Insightful Questions

Prepare thoughtful questions about the firm's approach to child protection law and their support for professional development. This shows your genuine interest in the role and helps you assess if it's the right fit for you.

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