Criminal Paralegal

A highly regarded specialist criminal defence practice is seeking a Criminal Paralegal to join its growing team in North London. This is an outstanding opportunity for a Criminal Paralegal looking to gain hands-on experience within a respected firm known for handling serious, complex and high-profile criminal matters. The successful Criminal Paralegal will work alongside experienced solicitors and advocates, receiving structured training, mentorship and a genuine route towards qualification. This Criminal Paralegal position offers exposure to a broad range of criminal defence work, including serious crime, complex investigations, white-collar crime and Crown Court matters. The successful candidate will be entrusted with meaningful responsibilities from an early stage, allowing them to develop their legal skills, build client relationships and gain valuable experience that supports a future Training Contract or SQE qualification pathway. You must have prior construction consultancy experience to be considered for this role. The Criminal Paralegal will support solicitors across a varied caseload while gradually developing responsibility for their own matters under supervision.

Responsibilities

Assisting with the preparation of Magistrates’ Court and Crown Court cases; Conducting detailed legal research and preparing case summaries; Reviewing evidence, witness statements, disclosure and prosecution material; Drafting legal correspondence, applications, instructions to counsel and attendance notes; Liaising with clients, barristers, courts, police stations, prisons and external agencies; Attending court hearings, conferences and client meetings; Supporting solicitors with trial preparation and case strategy; Managing and maintaining case files using the firm’s systems and procedures; Assisting with police station matters and working towards Police Station Accreditation; Handling administrative and procedural tasks associated with active criminal cases; Managing deadlines and prioritising workloads across multiple matters

Requirements

LPC or SQE qualified; Demonstrable interest in criminal defence law – at least 2 years+; Strong legal research and analytical skills; Excellent written and verbal communication skills; Commercial awareness and professional judgement; Strong organisational and time management abilities; Ability to work effectively under pressure; Proactive and capable of working independently when required; Strong interpersonal skills and ability to build rapport with clients; You must have prior construction consultancy experience to be considered for this role.

Nice to have

Additional language skills would be advantageous

Benefits

Structured training programme; Police Station Accreditation opportunities; Paid overtime opportunities; Exposure to high-profile and complex criminal cases; Pension scheme with employer contributions; Ongoing professional development and mentoring; Discretionary annual bonus; Regular firm events and social activities; Healthcare