Paralegal Children's Law

Our award-winning law firm is expanding its specialist Childrens Law department due to continued growth and increasing demand. We are now seeking a dedicated and compassionate experienced Paralegal to join our specialist Children's Law team. We are proud winners at the Inspiring Hertfordshire Awards 2024 for Diversity & Inclusion and Business of the Year (West Herts), and finalists for Legal Firm of the Year at the British Business Awards 2025. Our work genuinely changes lives, and we are looking for someone who wants their career to do the same. Job Purpose As a Paralegal in our Children Department, you’ll be part of a passionate and forward-thinking legal team dedicated to supporting families and protecting children’s welfare. This is a dynamic and rewarding role where no two days are the same — you’ll work on a diverse caseload of both private and publicly funded matters, assisting solicitors and counsel in preparing cases, managing client relationships, and ensuring the smooth running of proceedings. This position offers the opportunity to develop your skills in a supportive environment where learning and growth are encouraged. If you are looking to build on existing experience in Children matters, you’ll find a workplace that values compassion, precision, and progress.

Key Responsibilities

Client Work & Case Management Reporting directly to the Head of Department Adopting a professional, proactive approach with strong client care skills and a sensitive understanding of clients’ needs Assisting with casework across Children matters (both Legal Aid funded and Private Client work) Undertaking your own advocacy where appropriate Attending clients, taking detailed instructions, and preparing case files Managing and responding to correspondence efficiently and professionally Preparing and managing Legal Aid applications to the Legal Aid Agency Drafting key legal documents, including C100s, C1As, witness statements, and processing supporting evidence Preparing court bundles and instructions to counsel Conducting legal research to support case strategy and client advice Attending client conferences Maintaining accurate time-costing and billing procedures Implementing any recommendations made during monthly file reviews, ensuring prompt compliance Ensuring consistent compliance with firm-wide file management and regulatory standards Delivering high-quality client service in line with the firm’s values of empathy, equality, and professionalism Teamwork & Supervision Collaborate closely with colleagues and administrative staff to deliver seamless client service Provide guidance and supervision to colleagues Participate in team meetings, training, and case discussions Contribute to creating a positive, supportive, and inclusive team culture Professional Development & Compliance Maintain up-to-date knowledge of family and children matter including relevant legislation and case law Ensure compliance with the Solicitors Regulation Authority (SRA) Code of Conduct and Legal Aid Agency requirements Engage in supervision and continuous professional development activities Assist in developing internal best practice standards and contribute to quality assurance processes

Person Specification

Qualifications & Experience Completed the LPC or commenced the SQE Hands-on experience in private and/or public children law matters (e.g. Child Arrangements Orders, Prohibited Steps Orders, Specific Issue Orders) Excellent attention to detail, organisation, and time management skills A collaborative mindset, bringing positivity and support to the team Confidence in using IT systems and the Legal Aid Agency’s CCMS portal Skills & Competencies Strong organisational and time-management skills, with the ability to manage urgent and sensitive cases Excellent communication and interpersonal skills Ability to work calmly and effectively under pressure Strong client care and advocacy skills, with a compassionate and professional approach Ability to meet deadlines and ensure compliance Attention to detail and ability to work independently as well as collaboratively Commitment to trauma-informed practice and continuous learning

Desirable

Fluency in additional languages Experience in community outreach or public engagement Personal Attributes Empathetic, approachable, and emotionally intelligent Professional and composed when managing sensitive and high-stress situations Proactive, self-motivated, and adaptable Resilient, with a commitment to providing exceptional service to vulnerable clients Team-oriented and passionate about supporting others’ development