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.

Led by industry recognised planning partners, our dedicated and experienced team works closely with clients to help achieve their planning objectives. Our clients include commercial developers, housebuilders, retail and leisure operators, social housing bodies, major corporate occupiers, banks and other funders, and a range of public sector bodies.

The successful candidate will be assisting the national team with a variety of tasks including infrastructure agreements.  Tasks will include but are not limited to: -                  

• Communicating with clients and external solicitors (both in writing and telephone);
• Assisting with various planning queries including liaising with local planning authorities;
• Assisting with the preparation of high court challenges and planning appeals;
• Ad hoc research in relation to legal matters;
• Attending marketing and networking events with clients and intermediaries

We consider this to be a Level 1 Competency position.

• Degree and ideally LPC or ILEX qualified
• Ideally 6 months previous paralegal experience within a similar role, or previous paralegal experience within a professional environment
• Excellent client care skills, with an ability to deliver a quality service to both internal and external clients
• Ability to work in a high-pressure environment with short deadlines
• Enthusiastic with a positive, can do attitude
• Good working knowledge of various applications – word, excel, outlook
• Excellent presentation skills
• A methodical approach with keen attention paid to every detail
• Good organisational skills to ensure that the tasks are effectively scheduled within working time available, and that urgent work is completed and returned within the specified timescales
• Able to integrate within a team as well as working on one’s own initiative
• A willingness to take part in business development, including the attendance at networking and other marketing events

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.