Criminal Paralegal

Reed; Reading; On-site; GBP 15,000 - 18,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Up to £28,000 salary

Clear progression opportunities

Professional development and training

Supportive, team-focused environment

Hands-on experience in Criminal Defenc

Job summary

Reed in Reading is seeking a motivated Criminal Paralegal to join its busy Criminal Defence team. You will support fee-earners, manage case files, take client instructions, and help prepare briefs, gaining hands-on experience in real-world cases.

The ideal candidate has 6+ months in criminal law (or strong legal support), good communication and organisational skills, and a law degree or LPC preferred. The firm offers mentorship, progression opportunities, and a supportive, team-focused

Qualifications

• Ideally 6+ months experience in criminal law (or strong legal support experience).
• Strong communication skills and resilience.
• Organised and able to work under pressure.
• Law degree or LPC or equivalent preferred but not essential.

Responsibilities

• Managing and preparing case files
• Taking initial client instructions and conducting client interviews
• Attending police stations (with training) and preparing briefs
• Conducting legal research and gathering evidence
• Drafting documents, statements, applications, and correspondence
• Liaising with courts, counsel, probation, and external agencies
• Ensuring all casework complies with deadlines, policies, and professional standards

Skills

Criminal law experience

Communication skills

Resilience

Organisational skills

Proactive mindset

Professionalism

Education

Law degree / LPC

Job description

Job Description

A respected, well-established law firm in Reading is seeking a motivated Criminal Paralegal to join its busy and highly regarded Criminal Defence team. This is a superb opportunity for someone passionate about criminal law who wants hands‑on experience, strong exposure to real-world cases, and the chance to progress within a supportive, fast-paced environment.

Why this firm stands out

This firm takes pride in offering a supportive, professional, and genuinely people‑centred environment. Candidates will value:

• Outstanding mentorship from experienced defence solicitors
• A close‑knit, collaborative culture where your development is genuinely encouraged
• Exposure to a wide range of criminal matters, ensuring every day is varied and stimulating
• A team known for exceptional client care, strategic thinking, and strong advocacy

This is the kind of firm where ambitious paralegals grow quickly, build strong case‑handling skills, and feel genuinely supported.

The Role

You will play a key role in supporting fee‑earners across the Criminal Defence team, including:

• Managing and preparing case files
• Taking initial client instructions and conducting client interviews
• Attending police stations (with training) and preparing briefs
• Conducting legal research and gathering evidence
• Drafting documents, statements, applications, and correspondence
• Liaising with courts, counsel, probation, and external agencies
• Ensuring all casework complies with deadlines, policies, and professional standards

This role offers the opportunity to gain meaningful responsibility from the outset, making it perfect for someone eager to build a career in criminal law.

About You

• Ideally 6+ months experience in criminal law (or strong legal support experience)
• A genuine interest in criminal defence and justice
• Strong communication skills and resilience
• Ability to stay organised under pressure
• Proactive, committed, and able to handle sensitive situations with professionalism
• Law degree, LPC or equivalent (preferred but not essential)

Benefits

• Up to £28,000 salary (reflective of Reading's market range)
• Clear progression opportunities (including potential police station accreditation)
• Professional development and training
• Supportive, team‑focused working environment
• Opportunity to gain substantial hands‑on experience in a respected Criminal Defence team