A paralegal works to support solicitors and other legal professionals in law firms, government departments, or corporate legal teams. Daily tasks might include conducting legal research, drafting documents, preparing case files, and liaising with clients. Paralegals do not usually represent clients in court but play an essential role in ensuring cases are well-prepared and managed. Many paralegals specialise in areas such as family law, conveyancing, or criminal law. The role can be an excellent entry point for those considering a legal career, and some paralegals go on to train as solicitors.
Paralegals in the UK typically earn between £19,000 and £40,000 per year, depending on experience and location.
There were over 18,000 paralegals employed in the UK as of 2023, with demand expected to grow steadily.
Most paralegals work between 37 and 40 hours per week, usually during standard office hours.
A specialist who assists solicitors with legal work related to property sales, purchases and transfers.
A professional supporting solicitors in cases involving divorce, child custody and other family-related legal matters.
Someone who helps solicitors prepare for court cases, manage documents and communicate with clients during legal disputes.
Research what a paralegal does, including their day-to-day tasks and responsibilities.
Look up information about paralegal roles on trusted career websites such as Prospects or the National Careers Service. Try to read job adverts and speak to practising paralegals if possible to get a realistic view of the job. Understanding the career will help you decide if it suits your interests and skills.
Work on skills such as attention to detail, organisation, and written communication.
Paralegals need to be thorough, organised, and able to communicate clearly in writing and in person. You can develop these skills by participating in school debates, joining a writing club, or helping to organise events. Volunteering for administrative roles can also help build relevant experience.
Obtain GCSEs and A-levels, preferably including subjects like English and Law if available.
Most paralegals have at least five GCSEs at grades 4 to 9 including English. Taking A-levels in relevant subjects such as Law, English, or History is beneficial. Some employers may accept equivalent vocational qualifications.
Pursue a higher education qualification such as a law degree, or a specific paralegal diploma or certificate.
While a university law degree is not always required, it is highly regarded. Alternatively, you can take a paralegal course accredited by organisations like the National Association of Licensed Paralegals (NALP) or CILEX. These courses provide practical legal knowledge and increase your employability.
Gain experience through work placements, internships, or volunteering in a legal setting.
Many law firms, courts, and local authorities offer work experience placements or internships. Volunteering at a Citizens Advice Bureau or a law centre is also valuable. This hands-on experience will help you develop practical skills and build a network in the legal profession.
Look for entry-level paralegal jobs and apply with a strong CV and cover letter.
Search for paralegal job vacancies on legal recruitment websites, local job boards, and company websites. Tailor your CV to highlight your legal knowledge, relevant skills, and any work experience you have gained. Prepare for interviews by practising common legal interview questions.
Solicitors provide expert legal advice to clients, represent them in some courts, and handle legal transactions. They often supervise paralegals.
Legal secretaries perform administrative tasks specific to the legal sector, including typing legal documents, managing diaries, and liaising with clients.
Chartered legal executives are qualified lawyers who specialise in a particular area of law, often progressing from a paralegal background.
Explore relevant apprenticeships that can help you kickstart your career in Paralegal. Apprenticeships offer hands-on experience and training while earning a wage.
You can get into this job through:
You could study for a foundation degree, higher national diploma or degree in law, legal studies or paralegal practice.
It's competitive to get a place on a law degree, so you'll need to have good grades when you apply.
You'll usually need:
You could do a college course before you look for paralegal work.
Courses include:
Entry requirements for these courses vary.
You could take a Paralegal Level 3 Advanced Apprenticeship.
This usually takes 2 years to complete as a mix of workplace learning and study.
You could also do a Legal Technician (conveyancing or probate) Level 4 Higher Apprenticeship if you wanted to specialise in either of these two areas.
Employers will set their own entry requirements.
You might be able to find work with a legal practice as an admin assistant and do training on the job to qualify.
You can do training through the Institute of Paralegals or the National Association of Licensed Paralegals.
You'll be expected to have GCSEs or A levels and a good standard of English.
You'll find it helpful to get some experience in the area of law you want to work in, such as family, criminal or property law.
As well as opportunities with law firms, look out for placements in legal departments of businesses, charities, central and local government.
You can find out more about paralegal careers from the Institute of Paralegals.
Explore other careers or use our AI to discover personalised paths based on your interests.
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