Paralegal

Paralegal | Manchester, M1 | Full Time | Permanent | £24,000-£28,000 per annum

Working Hours: Monday to Friday, 9:00 am - 5:00 pm

Our client is a well-established and highly regarded specialist Criminal Defence firm with offices in Manchester and London.

The Role

Your responsibilities will include:

• Assisting solicitors with a varied caseload of criminal defence matters
• Preparing case files, correspondence and legal documentation
• Reviewing and organising evidence and disclosure
• Assisting with preparation for Magistrates' Court and Crown Court hearings
• Liaising with clients, barristers, courts, police and other relevant agencies
• Taking instructions from clients and maintaining accurate attendance notes
• Assisting with legal research and case preparation
• Preparing applications, statements and other case documentation
• Maintaining accurate records and keeping case-management systems up to date
• Assisting with publicly funded criminal defence matters and Legal Aid administration
• Providing high standards of client care and supporting solicitors throughout each case

Requirements

Essential

• A Law degree or strong academic background in law
• Legal experience as a Crime Paralegal or Crime Advisor
• A clear understanding of criminal law and its application
• A passion for pursuing a career in criminal law
• Strong organisational skills and the ability to manage competing priorities
• Excellent communication skills when dealing with clients and professional bodies
• Accuracy when working under pressure and to tight deadlines
• The ability to work independently and as part of a team
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office and confidence using case-management systems
• A professional, pragmatic approach and commitment to excellent client service
• An interest in developing legal knowledge and gaining practical criminal defence experience

Desirable

• Experience within a criminal defence environment
• Previous experience with Legal Aid and/or criminal casework

What's On Offer

• Salary of £24,000-£28,000 per annum, depending on experience
• The opportunity to work within an established and specialist criminal defence team
• Exposure to a wide range of criminal matters
• Hands‑on experience across Magistrates' Court and Crown Court cases
• Close support and mentoring from experienced criminal solicitors
• A supportive and collaborative working environment

Sector:

Criminal Defence / Legal Aid