Criminal Paralegal: Hands-On Defence & Mentorship

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

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