Join the paras

Have you ever thought of obtaining permanent work in a law firm without having to obtain a training contract first? More and more graduates are realising that taking up work as a paralegal or legal assistant is an alternative route into the legal profession.

As the job market becomes more competitive many graduates are finding that practical work experience is vital to success in obtaining a training contract. To this end, they are obtaining work experience to give them the competitive edge when applying for a training contract.

Firms employ paralegals to perform fee-earning tasks, firstly because they have the requisite academic background and secondly it is an ideal way to free up solicitors to carry out other tasks. There is an ever expanding market for graduates, and recent surveys have shown that nearly half of a wide cross-section of firms now employ graduates as paralegals, and a further third are looking to increase this further.

What is a paralegal?

Paralegals or legal assistants are fee-earners working in a law firm undertaking casework. On the whole they assist solicitors with their caseloads and assume varying degrees of responsibility. The legal system today means that solicitors have to manage their time more efficiently and to delegate work where necessary. Paralegals free up solicitors to carry out other tasks.

Work experience

The competition for training contracts is extremely fierce. It is well known that students with relevant work experience have the competitive edge. Many students seek summer placements or paralegal work as a way of enhancing their CVs. Not only does this boost their chances of obtaining a training contract but it also gives them the opportunity to assess whether they wish for a long-term career in the legal profession.

How can you find these jobs?

Many paralegal appointments are advertised in the legal press and also in local papers. With regard to the latter, pay particular attention to the content of the advert as opposed to the heading, as this may be misleading. As a rule of thumb read anything that concerns a legal position. You may also wish to approach firms directly by writing to them. It is often better to have telephoned the firm first to obtain the correct name and address, thereby ensuring that your application lands on the right desk.

Other appointments and work experience can be gained through a work placement which may lead to a full-time position.

Training

There are only a few organisations that provide paralegal training and fewer still that provide graduate level courses. If you are interested in graduate paralegal training and in obtaining a work placement, contact Central Law Training who offer a graduate programme in London.

Anthony Osude:

Central Law Training

For information on Central Law Training contact Harpinder Toora on 0121 362 7735 or email htoora@centlaw.com