Paralegal

Dorset Council UK; Dorchester; Hybrid; GBP 25,000 - 35,000; Full time

Job summary

Join Dorset Council as a paralegal, where you will support solicitors in their work in public law. This hybrid position offers hands-on legal experience and is an excellent opportunity for those looking to advance their careers in the public sector. You will engage in various tasks, including legal research, document drafting, and attending court. If you have a law degree and a passion for public service, we encourage you to apply!

Qualifications

• Law degree or equivalent qualification required.
• Confident in written and verbal communication.
• Experience in an office environment preferred.

Responsibilities

• Attend legal meetings and court hearings, and manage document disclosure.
• Conduct legal research and draft legal documents.
• Support litigation preparation and assist external advisers.

Skills

Organisation

Detail-oriented

Communication (written and verbal)

IT Proficiency

Education

Law degree or equivalent qualification

Job description

Join a supportive and knowledgeable team at Dorset Council, where you’ll gain hands-on legal experience and benefit from ongoing training and development.

This hybrid role offers flexibility, with the expectation of being in the office at least once a week. You’ll play a valuable part in meaningful work that supports the community, with the opportunity to develop your career in public sector law.

What You’ll Be Doing

You’ll support solicitors in the Adults legal team by attending legal meetings and court hearings, taking minutes, managing document disclosure, and assisting with Court of Protection applications.

You’ll also carry out legal research, draft legal documents and correspondence, and help instruct external advisers. The role may also involve preparing for and supporting litigation, and contributing to internal training sessions.

About You

• you’ll need a law degree or equivalent qualification and a genuine interest in public law
• you should be organised, detail-focused, and confident in your written and verbal communication
• you’ll be comfortable working independently and as part of a team, and able to manage competing priorities
• experience in an office environment and the ability to use IT confidently are also essential
• experience in a legal setting or knowledge of local government law would be a bonus.