Paralegal

A leading UK law firm with a network of offices from the South Coast to Scotland, working together as one national team. An innovative practice and the first top 100 law firm to achieve “Gold Standard” Investors in People, our values and culture are not just words on our website but are the heartbeat of the firm. The lack of barriers between departments, a real lack of hierarchy, zero tolerance for arrogance and pomposity makes Shoosmiths a fantastic place to work.

Our top ranking Commercial group “epitomises professionalism – they are just what in-house counsel require – very experienced; intelligent, commercially minded; and supreme negotiators” (The Legal 500). From contracts for e-business to major outsourcing projects, and whether relating to purchasing, production, marketing, selling, infrastructure or technology, our lawyers understand the need to be both commercial and apply the law in real life situations in partnering our clients to achieve their commercial objectives.

• Reviewing and negotiating commercial contracts as part of Shoosmiths’ Spotlight service.
• Assisting legal advisors in the department with various commercial law matters.
• Being available to accept opportunities for secondments to major clients.
• Assisting legal advisors in the department with various general commercial law matters and commercial contract reviews.
• Assisting with the drafting of legal terms and conditions.
• Keeping up to date with legal updates and legislation changes and updating the team accordingly.
• Communicating effectively and confidently with clients and external solicitors (both in writing and by telephone) to provide advice and deal with initial queries.
• Managing matters for key clients, sometimes with short deadlines.
• Assisting with various other tasks as required.

• The ideal candidate will be an experienced paralegal (minimum 6 months) from a recognised commercial team either in private practice or in-house.
• LPC or ILEX qualified is preferred and strong academics would be advantageous.
• Diligent with excellent attention to detail.
• Proven experience of delivering a superb client service to both internal and external clients.
• Strong organisational skills to ensure that tasks are effectively scheduled within working time available and that urgent work is completed and returned within the specified timescales.
• Self-confidence and ability to demonstrate initiative.

Shoosmiths is a committed Equal Opportunities employer promoting equality of opportunity. This means that everyone who either applies to or works for the firm is treated equally, whatever their gender, age, ethnic origin, nationality, marital status, disability, sexual orientation or religious beliefs.