Court Of Protection Paralegal

Job Purpose

To provide paralegal support within the Court of Protection department, assisting with the day-to-day management of client affairs, deputyship matters and trusts under the supervision of senior fee earners.

Key Duties and Responsibilities

• Manage the day-to-day administration of Court of Protection files under the supervision of the Legal Director, working effectively as part of the wider team.

• Process payments, set up standing orders, settle invoices and reimburse expenses relating to deputyship and trust matters.

• Liaise with third parties, including utility providers, landlords, local authorities, the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) and HM Revenue & Customs (HMRC), on behalf of clients, maintaining accurate records of all communications.

• Review and audit client bank accounts as directed.

• Process incoming correspondence by scanning documents to the relevant files and updating client records accordingly.

• Assist with monitoring and maintaining the Court of Protection diary, ensuring key dates and deadlines are recorded and managed effectively.

• Prepare file notes and attendance notes as required.

• Maintain accurate, detailed and up-to-date records of clients' financial affairs and other relevant information.

• Support senior members of the department with complex or substantial case files, demonstrating flexibility to cover workloads during periods of staff absence.

• Complete relevant paralegal training appropriate to Court of Protection Grade D fee earners and maintain up-to-date professional knowledge.

• Comply with the Solicitors Regulation Authority (SRA) requirements, Office of the Public Guardian (OPG) Deputy Standards and internal office procedures, maintaining high professional standards and minimising the risk of professional negligence through effective organisation and attention to detail.

• Demonstrate an understanding of clients' individual needs and expectations, ensuring all matters are handled promptly, proactively and efficiently.

• Achieve agreed billing targets in consultation with the Department or Unit Head.

• Follow departmental procedures, including those relating to the monitoring and management of client indebtedness.

• Maintain current knowledge of relevant legislation, legal developments and best practice within the Court of Protection field, meeting all continuing professional development requirements.

• Proactively develop legal knowledge, improve the quality of work undertaken and enhance professional expertise.

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