Paralegal (Criminal defence)
- liverpool, england, United Kingdom
Job Description
Paralegal
We are looking for a talented and ambitious individual to join our growing Criminal Defence team.
Due to increased demand for our award-winning services and the acquisition of criminal contracts in Wigan and Merseyside, we are seeking an ambitious individual who can provide paralegal support to our fee earners and represent the firm in ensuring high standards of client care.
The ideal candidate will have experience supporting Crown Court cases, including serious offences, and will be keen to develop their expertise within criminal defence while providing exceptional client care and support to the wider team.
Bell Lamb & Joynson’s Criminal Defence team is Legal 500 ranked and currently holds the #2 position for Criminal Defence on ReviewSolicitors .
We are an agile firm and can offer flexibility in your base location. You can choose to work from any of our offices in Liverpool, Walton Vale Maghull, Warrington, Runcorn, or Ashton-in-Makerfield .
About Bell Lamb & Joynson
Established in 1821, we have been at our clients’ side for over 200 years. Today, we are one of the fastest-growing traditional high street law firms across Merseyside, North Cheshire, and the surrounding areas.
Service is key to our success so client focused individuals would enjoy working within this growing team.
General Responsibilities
Taking instructions from clients and obtaining information to support case preparation.
Preparing and maintaining case files, legal documents, and correspondence.
Liaising with clients, courts, counsel, experts, witnesses, and external agencies.
Assisting with the preparation and progression of Magistrates' Court and Crown Court cases.
Maintaining files in line with firm procedures, Legal Aid Agency requirements, and quality standards.
Keeping accurate case notes, records, and time records.
Supporting solicitors and fee earners with case progression, legal research, and admin tasks.
Attending court, police stations, prisons, and other appointments as required.
Maintaining the confidentiality of client and firm information.
Contributing to a safe and positive working environment.
Undertaking training and professional development as required.
Person Specification
Strong interpersonal skills and ability to build trust with clients.
Organised and detail-oriented in handling tasks and deadlines.
Clear and confident communicator, both written and verbal.
Able to prioritise and remain calm under pressure.
Positive, proactive team player with a collaborative mindset.
Committed to integrity, compliance, and delivering excellent service.
Essential:
Previous experience in a criminal law setting.
Ability to manage a busy workload independently.
High attention to detail and strong organisational skills.
Competence with Microsoft Office and case management systems.
Desirable:
Police Station Accreditation
Experience with complex or high-profile cases.
Knowledge of legal aid processes and funding applications.
Familiarity with digital case management tools and modern legal tech
What we offer:
Salary £24,000 - £26,000 per annum
Career development -
20 days holiday + Bank Holidays per year.
Christmas shutdown
Discounted legal services for colleagues, friends and family.
Firm pension policy.
Death in service benefit.
24/7 GP Access.