Paralegal - #2167360

job Description: Paralegal – Court of Protection Team

Department: Court of Protection

Job Title: Paralegal

Reports to: Solicitor / Associate / Team Leader

Job Purpose

We are seeking a motivated, organised and compassionate Paralegal to join our Court of Protection team. The successful candidate will provide legal and administrative support to solicitors dealing with matters relating to individuals who lack mental capacity to make certain decisions for themselves.

The role will involve supporting the management of Court of Protection matters, assisting with applications and legal documentation, liaising with clients and their families, deputies, healthcare professionals and other relevant parties, and ensuring that matters are handled efficiently and in accordance with relevant legislation, court rules and regulatory requirements.

Key Responsibilities

• Assist solicitors with the day-to-day management of Court of Protection matters, including property and financial affairs and health and welfare matters.
• Prepare, draft and review legal documents, court applications, witness statements and supporting documentation.
• Assist with applications for deputyship orders, statutory wills, gifts, and other Court of Protection matters, as appropriate.
• Maintain accurate and up-to-date client files, case management systems and electronic records.
• Liaise professionally with clients, family members, professional deputies, social workers, healthcare professionals, financial institutions and the Court of Protection.
• Monitor court deadlines, diarise key dates and ensure that all required documentation is submitted within the relevant timeframes.
• Support solicitors with legal research and the preparation of case summaries, reports and correspondence.
• Assist with the administration of deputyship matters, including financial records, property-related matters and correspondence with relevant organisations, where required.
• Ensure client confidentiality and handle sensitive information with professionalism and discretion.
• Provide empathetic and client-focused support, recognising the vulnerabilities and individual needs of clients.
• Ensure compliance with relevant legislation, court procedures, data protection requirements and the firm's internal policies.
• Undertake general administrative duties to support the effective running of the Court of Protection team.

Skills and Experience

• Previous experience in a paralegal or legal support role is desirable, ideally within Court of Protection, private client, wills and probate, or a related area of law.
• A good understanding of the Mental Capacity Act 2005 and the role of the Court of Protection is advantageous.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to communicate sensitively and professionally.
• Excellent organisational skills and the ability to manage competing priorities and deadlines.
• Strong attention to detail and the ability to prepare accurate legal documentation.
• Good IT skills, including Microsoft Office and case management systems.
• The ability to work independently while contributing effectively to a wider team.
• A professional, empathetic and proactive approach to client care.
• A commitment to maintaining confidentiality and delivering a high standard of service.

Personal Attributes

The ideal candidate will be compassionate, dependable and highly organised, with a genuine interest in supporting vulnerable individuals and protecting their interests. They will demonstrate initiative, sound judgement, a willingness to learn and the ability to work effectively in a sensitive and sometimes complex legal environment.

What We Offer

• The opportunity to develop specialist experience within Court of Protection law.
• Supportive working relationships and opportunities for professional development.
• Exposure to a varied and interesting caseload.
• The opportunity to make a meaningful difference to the lives of vulnerable individuals and their families.