Public Law Paralegal (Judicial Review) in Bristol

Watkins Solicitors invites a dedicated individual to join their specialist Public Law team as a Permanent Public Law Paralegal (Judicial Review). The role is full‑time, 35 hours per week, and based in the North Street, Southville, Bristol office.

Responsibilities

• Assist the Public Law team with new enquiries and client communications.
• Undertake fee‑earning tasks to support the running of judicial reviews and wider Public Law matters under the supervision and management of qualified Solicitors.
• Draft correspondence, statements, chronologies, pre‑action protocol letters and other legal documents accurately and clearly.
• Assist with issuing judicial review claims and supporting ongoing court proceedings.
• Prepare, organise and update court bundles and evidence bundles.
• Liaise with clients, counsel, independent experts, local authorities, public bodies and other professionals.
• Attend conferences with counsel and court hearings where appropriate.
• Liaise with the Legal Aid Agency and prepare legal aid applications.
• Undertake effective legal research, using appropriate sources and presenting findings clearly.
• Ensure all work complies with firm policies and business processes regarding confidentiality, security, data protection and file retention.
• Adhere to relevant standards connected to the department's work, including Legal Aid requirements and risk management procedures.
• Use the firm's case management systems and office procedures to manage matters effectively.
• Carry out general administrative duties to support the effective running of the Public Law department.
• Maintain a commitment to excellent client care at all times, escalating issues to qualified Solicitors where necessary.
• Keep technically up to date through training, research and professional development.

Qualifications & Experience

• Law degree or equivalent qualification.
• High level of written English, with strong spelling, punctuation, presentation and attention to detail.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Strong organisational skills and ability to manage competing priorities.
• Can do attitude, with the ability to use initiative and work proactively.
• Good knowledge of Microsoft Office and other relevant IT platforms.
• Demonstrable interest in Public Law or Judicial Review.
• Personal pride in producing work of a high standard.
• Commitment to providing excellent standards of client care.
• LPC, SQE undertaking or completion, or equivalent legal training.
• Own transport.
• Previous experience in a Public Law, Human Rights, Legal Aid or other legal setting.
• Experience assisting with court bundles, Legal Aid processes or Judicial Review work.
• Experience using a case management system.

Our Offer

• Competitive salary: £23,000 – £25,000 per annum, dependant on skills and experience.
• Flexible work policy and Bike2Work Scheme.
• Comprehensive in‑house training and supervision.
• Opportunities for career progression with a training contract considered after six months and support for alternative routes to qualifying.
• Support for candidates progressing via SQE or CILEX.

Inclusive Employer

We welcome applications from all sections of the community, irrespective of age, disability, gender reassignment, marriage and civil partnership, pregnancy and maternity, race, religion or belief, sex, and sexual orientation. We are committed to providing adjustments for candidates and employees to work at their best, including flexible working and workplace modifications as needed.