Legal Assistant/Paralegal with Progression to Training Contract - 2025 - Premier Solicitors

Deadline 31 January 2025

About Us:

We are a progressive law firm dedicated to providing outstanding legal services to our clients. Known for our commitment to excellence, we foster a supportive and collaborative work environment where ambition and growth are rewarded. We value continuous learning and provide the tools and opportunities for each team member to reach their full potential.

Since our establishment in 2006, we have experienced consistent growth and have become one of the leading firms in the region. We are in the top three for probate providers in the country (figures from MoJ) and were awarded ‘Highly Commended’ in British Wills and Probate Awards for Probate Provider of the Year – South (2024).

We offer a comprehensive range of legal services and have a large team of professionals, including members who are STEP, TALL, and ACTAPS certified, as well as a court-appointed Panel Deputy. We are Lexcel and CQS accredited, reflecting our commitment to quality legal services.

• Location: Bedford, with a client base that extends nationwide.
• Accreditations: Lexcel and CQS accredited, highlighting our dedication to best practices and quality standards.

Job Description:

We are seeking a motivated Legal Assistant/Paralegal to join our team. This role is designed to provide foundational experience and training, with a clear path to a Trainee Solicitor (i.e. period of recognised training) position starting in September 2025. This is a fantastic opportunity for a recent graduate or someone at the beginning of their legal career to gain valuable hands-on experience while preparing for a future training contract.

Key Responsibilities:

• Assisting solicitors with case preparation, research, and drafting legal documents
• Managing caseloads under supervision and ensuring timely completion of tasks
• Conducting legal research to support ongoing cases and provide insight into various legal matters
• Attending client meetings, supporting clients throughout the legal process
• Maintaining accurate records and ensuring compliance with firm and regulatory standards

Requirements:

• Recently completed or in the process of completing the Legal Practice Course (LPC) or equivalent qualification
• Strong academic record with a demonstrated interest in pursuing a career in law
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
• Strong analytical abilities and attention to detail
• Ability to manage multiple tasks effectively in a fast-paced environment
• A proactive, team-oriented attitude and a willingness to learn

What We Offer:

• Initial role as Legal Assistant/Paralegal with a clear progression to a Trainee Solicitor role in September 
• Comprehensive training and mentorship to support your development
• Exposure to various legal practice areas to broaden your experience
• Supportive work environment focused on professional growth
• Competitive salary and benefits package

How to Apply:

Please send your CV and a cover letter explaining your interest in this role and relevant experience. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis, so early application is encouraged.

If you’re ready to begin your legal career with a firm committed to your growth and success, we would love to hear from you!

Benefits:

• Company events
• Company pension
• Employee discount

Experience:

• Paralegal: 1 year (preferred)

Trainee Solicitors and Training Contracts

For those interested in pursuing a career in law in the UK, a training contract is an important stepping stone on the path to becoming a qualified solicitor. Training contracts offer individuals the opportunity to gain practical experience, develop professional skills, and build connections within the legal industry.

Training contracts are an essential component of solicitor training in the UK. By participating in a training contract, you will gain the practical experience and theoretical knowledge necessary to become a fully qualified solicitor.

Solicitor's Training Contracts

While obtaining a training contract is a challenging and competitive process, hard work and dedication can pay off in the end.

For those who are successful in obtaining a training contract, it can be an exciting step towards a fulfilling and rewarding career in law.

What will a training contract entail? How do you obtain one? And what should you expect during your training period?

What is a training contract for solicitors?

A training contract is a two-year contract of employment offered by law firms in the UK. The contract is designed to provide individuals with the practical experience and training required to become a solicitor. During the course of the training contract, individuals work closely with qualified solicitors and learn about the various aspects of legal practice, including client communication, legal research and drafting legal documents.

How to obtain a training contract

At Premier Solicitors, we offer Training Contracts on a rolling basis and priority is given to candidates who have worked as a paralegal at the Firm for 1 to 2 years. However, we also welcome applications from other candidates who have appropriate knowledge and experience. 

Obtaining a training contract is a highly competitive process and candidates are required to have a qualifying law degree or graduate diploma in law (GDL) and must have completed the legal practice course (LPC). In addition to meeting these educational requirements, applicants need to demonstrate a range of skills and competencies relevant to legal practice, such as strong communication skills, attention to detail, the ability to work under pressure, and excellent analytical and problem-solving abilities.

To apply for a training contract, please send your CV and cover letter outlining your educational qualifications, relevant work experience, and key skills to the Practice Manager.

What to expect during your training period

During the two-year training period, individuals work on a variety of tasks such as assisting with legal research, drafting legal documents, attending and assisting in client meetings, preparing for court hearings, and taking notes. During the training, you will work in different departments of the firm, allowing you to gain diverse experiences.

Throughout the training contract, individuals participate in regular training sessions, which will be delivered through both in-house training programs and external training providers. These training sessions will cover a range of topics such as legal practice, professional skills development, and business skills.

At the end of the training period, individuals must pass a Professional Skills Course (PSC) before becoming fully qualified solicitors. Completion of the PSC is a requirement set by the Solicitors Regulation Authority (SRA) in the UK.

How to apply

To apply, send a covering letter and CV by e-mail. Unfortunately, due to the volume of applications we receive only successful candidates will be contacted.