Howard Bernstien Solicitors is seeking a highly organised, proactive, and motivated Criminal Paralegal for our Crown Court department.
The successful candidate will ideally have previous experience working within a criminal defence department and will be familiar with criminal legal aid case procedures, police station and court work, and the administrative systems used in criminal practice, including CJSM, CCDCS, Common Platform and similar platforms. They will also have experience using a case management system.
A law degree is preferable, although strong relevant experience within a criminal law environment will also be considered.
Duties
The role will include, but is not limited to:
- Handling and preparing criminal cases.
- Using criminal justice systems including CJSM, CCDCS, Common Platform, and other relevant online court, prosecution and defence portals.
- Liaising with clients, police stations, courts and professional contacts in a professional and confidential manner.
- Assisting with urgent criminal matters, including custody cases, remand hearings and time-sensitive court deadlines.
- Preparing briefs and instructions to counsel, including electronic and paper bundles where required.
- Maintaining accurate electronic and paper filing systems.
- Ensuring deadlines are monitored and complied with, including court directions, legal aid deadlines and internal case management dates.
- Ensuring confidentiality and compliance with data protection obligations at all times.
Essential Requirements
The successful candidate should have:
- Strong typing, document preparation and/or case preparation skills.
- Excellent organisational skills and the ability to manage a busy workload.
- Strong attention to detail.
- Good communication skills, both written and verbal.
- The ability to deal professionally and sensitively with clients, including vulnerable clients.
- The ability to work under pressure and meet urgent deadlines.
- Good IT skills, including Microsoft Office and legal case management software.
- A clear understanding of confidentiality, data protection and professional conduct requirements.
- The ability to work both independently and as part of a team.
Desirable Requirements
The following would be advantageous:
- A law degree or other relevant legal qualification.
- Previous experience in a criminal defence firm.
- Experience with criminal legal aid billing and Legal Aid Agency procedures.
- Existing or developing knowledge of police station procedures, magistrates’ court proceedings and Crown Court case progression.
- Experience with CJSM, CCDCS, Common Platform, and other legal case management software.
- Experience preparing electronic bundles and working with digital evidence.
- Understanding of compliance obligations in a regulated law firm environment.
Personal Qualities
The ideal candidate will be:
- Professional, reliable and discreet.
- Calm under pressure.
- Proactive and able to use initiative.
- Highly organised and methodical.
- Client-focused and approachable.
- Able to prioritise urgent criminal matters effectively.
- Flexible and willing to assist with changing departmental needs.
- Motivated to develop a career in criminal law.
Schedule
- Monday to Friday 9am – 5pm
Pay: From £25,420.00 per year
Work Location: In person
