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- Tasks: Support the Principal Lawyer in diverse legal matters, focusing on Special Educational Needs Tribunals.
- Company: Join West Berkshire Council's dynamic and supportive legal team.
- Benefits: Flexible working, generous leave, training opportunities, and a Local Government pension scheme.
- Why this job: Advance your paralegal career while making a real difference in people's lives.
- Qualifications: Experience as a Paralegal with knowledge of Special Educational Needs law.
- Other info: Enjoy a hybrid work model and excellent career development prospects.
The predicted salary is between 33000 - 45000 £ per year.
Role
Join to apply for the Senior Paralegal (People) – 05654 role at West Berkshire Council
West Berkshire Council\’s Legal and Democratic Service is seeking a Senior Paralegal to provide essential support to the Principal Lawyer – People Team, working on a range of interesting and varied legal matters, with a focus on Special Educational Needs Tribunals.
Responsibilities
As a Senior Paralegal – People Team, you will be an integral part of the Legal and Democratic Service, providing high-quality legal advice and support in relation to education law, and other areas of law as required. Your key responsibilities will include:
- Assisting with the preparation of legal documents such as court/tribunal submissions
- Conducting legal research and providing summaries of findings
- Managing and maintaining case files, ensuring accurate record-keeping
- Attending client meetings and taking detailed notes, including advising clients with supervision as required
- Attending court/tribunal hearings
- Providing administrative support including bundles
Qualifications and Skills
The ideal candidate will possess the following skills and attributes:
- Previous experience working as a Paralegal, ideally within a public sector or local authority environment
- Solid knowledge and understanding of Special Educational Needs law
- Excellent research and analytical skills
- Strong written and verbal communication skills
- Ability to manage multiple priorities and work to tight deadlines
- Proactive and self‑motivated, with a positive and professional attitude
In addition to the above, you should also be a team player, able to collaborate effectively with colleagues and clients.
Benefits
- Flexible working wherever possible between the hours of 07:00–21:00
- Hybrid working wherever possible – 40% in the office
- Access to a wide range of training and development opportunities
- Generous Local Government pension scheme
- Family friendly policies
- A range of local discounts
- Wellbeing Programme including Employee Assistance Programme and employee benefits
- Generous annual leave entitlement starting at 29 days per annum (plus public holidays), rising by an additional 5 days after 5 years\’ service
- Competitive salary of up to £39,862 per annum, pro‑rata for part‑time hours, and a working week of 37 hours
Equal Opportunities
The Council supports Equal Opportunity of employment, and positively encourages applications from people who fall within any of the nine protected characteristics under the Equality Act 2010.
How to Apply
Please now complete a short online application form. You will then be able to upload your CV.
Additional Information
For an informal discussion to learn more about this role, please contact Laura Knowles on 01635 503136 or email laura.knowles1@westberks.gov.uk.
This role has been identified as public facing in accordance with Part 7 of the Immigration Act 2016; the requirement to fulfil all spoken aspects of the role with confidence in English applies.
This privacy notice applies to job applicants applying for vacancies with West Berkshire Council: https://info.westberks.gov.uk/pnapplications
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Senior Paralegal (People) - 05654 employer: West Berkshire Council
Contact Detail:
West Berkshire Council Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior Paralegal (People) - 05654
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the legal field, especially those who might know someone at West Berkshire Council. A friendly chat can sometimes lead to insider info or even a referral.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by brushing up on Special Educational Needs law. We want you to be ready to discuss how your experience aligns with the role. Practice common interview questions and think about how you can showcase your skills.
✨Tip Number 3
Don’t forget to follow up after your interview! A quick thank-you email can leave a lasting impression. It shows you're keen and professional, which is exactly what they’re looking for.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website for a smoother process. It’s super easy and ensures your application gets the attention it deserves. Plus, you’ll be one step closer to joining a fantastic team!
We think you need these skills to ace Senior Paralegal (People) - 05654
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV is tailored to the Senior Paralegal role. Highlight your experience in legal matters, especially around Special Educational Needs law, and showcase any relevant skills that match the job description.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you're the perfect fit for the team at West Berkshire Council. Mention specific experiences that relate to the responsibilities listed in the job description.
Show Off Your Research Skills: Since the role involves legal research, consider including a brief example of a successful research project you've completed. This will demonstrate your analytical skills and ability to summarise findings effectively.
Apply Early!: Don’t wait until the last minute to submit your application. The closing date is just a guide, and we might close the vacancy early if we get enough applications. Get your application in through our website as soon as you can!
How to prepare for a job interview at West Berkshire Council
✨Know Your Legal Stuff
Make sure you brush up on Special Educational Needs law before the interview. Being able to discuss relevant legal principles and recent case law will show that you're not just a paralegal, but a knowledgeable candidate ready to tackle complex issues.
✨Prepare for Practical Scenarios
Expect to be asked about how you would handle specific legal situations or case files. Think through some examples from your past experience where you successfully managed multiple priorities or conducted thorough legal research, and be ready to share those stories.
✨Show Off Your Communication Skills
Since this role involves client meetings and court appearances, practice articulating your thoughts clearly and confidently. You might even want to do a mock interview with a friend to refine your verbal communication skills and ensure you come across as professional and approachable.
✨Ask Insightful Questions
At the end of the interview, don’t forget to ask questions! Inquire about the team dynamics, ongoing projects, or training opportunities. This shows your genuine interest in the role and helps you assess if the environment is the right fit for you.
