Job Description
Criminal Paralegal
A highly regarded specialist criminal defence practice is seeking a Criminal Paralegal to join its growing team in North London. This is an outstanding opportunity for a Criminal Paralegal looking to gain hands-on experience within a respected firm known for handling serious, complex and high-profile criminal matters. The successful Criminal Paralegal will work alongside experienced solicitors and advocates, receiving structured training, mentorship and a genuine route towards qualification.
This Criminal Paralegal position offers exposure to a broad range of criminal defence work, including serious crime, complex investigations, white-collar crime and Crown Court matters. The successful candidate will be entrusted with meaningful responsibilities from an early stage, allowing them to develop their legal skills, build client relationships and gain valuable experience that supports a future Training Contract or SQE qualification pathway.
You must have prior construction consultancy experience to be considered for this role.
The Criminal Paralegal's role
The Criminal Paralegal will support solicitors across a varied caseload while gradually developing responsibility for their own matters under supervision. Responsibilities will include:
Assisting with the preparation of Magistrates' Court and Crown Court cases
Conducting detailed legal research and preparing case summaries
Reviewing evidence, witness statements, disclosure and prosecution material
Drafting legal correspondence, applications, instructions to counsel and attendance notes
Liaising with clients, barristers, courts, police stations, prisons and external agencies
Attending court hearings, conferences and client meetings
Supporting solicitors with trial preparation and case strategy
Managing and maintaining case files using the firm's systems and procedures
Assisting with police station matters and working towards Police Station Accreditation
Handling administrative and procedural tasks associated with active criminal cases
Managing deadlines and prioritising workloads across multiple matters
The Criminal Paralegal
LPC or SQE qualified
Demonstrable interest in criminal defence law - atleast 2 years +
Strong legal research and analytical skills
Excellent written and verbal communication skills
Commercial awareness and professional judgement
Strong organisational and time management abilities
Ability to work effectively under pressure
Proactive and capable of working independently when required
Strong interpersonal skills and ability to build rapport with clients
Additional language skills would be advantageous
In Return?
26,000 starting salary
Structured training programme
Police Station Accreditation opportunities
Paid overtime opportunities
Exposure to high-profile and complex criminal cases
Pension scheme with employer contributions
Ongoing professional development and mentoring
Discretionary annual bonus
Regular firm events and social activities
This is an excellent opportunity for an ambitious Criminal Paralegal seeking genuine career progression within a leading criminal defence environment.
