Why join us?:
DWF is currently recruiting for a Paralegal to join our expanding Real Estate Litigation team.
This is an exciting opportunity for a paralegal who has experience in handling housing management matters on behalf of registered providers of social landlords, local authorities and private landlords, including housing condition claims (pre-litigation and litigated), residential possession claims, enforcement action and tenancy enforcement. This role also brings with it the opportunity for the successful candidate to gain exposure to commercial property disputes, acting on behalf of large commercial clients in matters such as:
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1954 Act lease renewals (opposed and unopposed)
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Break notices, along with contractual/statutory notices
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Telecoms disputes.
This role can be based in our Manchester, Leeds or Newcastle offices with a flexible, hybrid working approach.
Responsibilities:
- Running your own caseload of housing conditions claims on both a pre-litigated and litigated basis for registered providers of social housing and local authorities.
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Being tasked with reviewing, drafting and issue of residential possession claims, handling these files through to completion, enforcing orders if so required.
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Drafting of Court documents, witness statements and further correspondence required.
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Regular engagement with clients, tenants, housing officers and third parties with professionalism and clarity.
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Drafting of contractual/statutory notices on behalf of major household-name clients.
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Assisting qualified individuals in the preparation and issue of lease renewal proceedings, actively supporting with the management of such claims, including adherence to the Court directions.
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Supporting the wider team in handling Telecoms disputes, involving the Electronic Communications Code.
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Actively assisting in trial preparation, trial bundles and engagement with Counsel in readiness for the same.
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Actively engaging in training and development opportunities to build expertise.
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Maintaining accurate and up-to-date case management records.
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Contributing to process improvement and knowledge sharing within the department.
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Ensuring compliance with SLA, KPI, and quality standards.
What will help you succeed in this role? :
Essential
- Previous experience working on or assisting with a real estate or commercial property related caseload.
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A law degree, LPC or other relevant legal qualification.
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Strong organisational skills with the ability to prioritise effectively and meet strict deadlines.
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Excellent attention to detail and a high standard of written and verbal communication.
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A proactive and collaborative approach, with the ability to work effectively as part of a team.
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Confidence to use own initiative and take ownership of tasks.
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A genuine enthusiasm for litigation and a willingness to develop technical expertise through ongoing training and support.
Desirable
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Experience in housing condition claims (on behalf of both landlords and tenants), issue of possession proceedings, tenancy enforcement, and/or wider housing management.
What we offer?:
We are committed to ensuring that each member of our team feels valued and duly rewarded during their time at DWF.
We are an equal opportunities employer that celebrates diversity, and we are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all. We aim to create a positive experience for all candidates and offer any adjustments or additional support needed. If you're excited about the opportunity but your experience doesn’t align perfectly with all the requirements, please apply anyway. You may be the right candidate for the role or others across the wider team.
About us:
DWF is a leading global provider of integrated legal and business services. Our approach delivers efficiency, price certainty and transparency for our clients across the world without compromising on quality or service. Our purpose is to deliver positive outcomes with our colleagues, clients and communities and we foster a culture that places our colleagues at the centre of all that we do.
