Paralegals

Find out more on our dedicated 'Paralegal' page.

Paralegals work in law firms but aren’t qualified as solicitors or CILEX Lawyers. Although paralegals used to be seen as support staff, the role of a paralegal has moved beyond just assisting solicitors. Paralegals are a distinct group of legal professionals, although this kind of role is often used as a steppingstone to becoming a solicitor or CILEX Lawyer. Some paralegal roles are similar to those of solicitors. 

As such, a paralegal can build up two years’ qualifying work experience (QWE) and qualify via the Solicitors Qualifying Exam (SQE) using their paralegal experience. For the paralegal work to count as QWE, it needs to help you to build the skills and understanding that solicitors require in real legal practice; or some or all of the competencies set out by the Solicitors Regulation Authority (SRA) in its statement of solicitor competence. Find out more about the SQE and the different routes to becoming a lawyer on page 8.

Another common reason many graduates work as paralegals is because it’s a great way to gain the crucial legal work experience needed to secure a training contract. Some paralegals get the experience and then apply for a training contract at the same firm, while others move on from firms where this isn’t an option and apply successfully elsewhere. However, a note of caution: paralegals perform many of the same tasks as solicitors but are generally not paid as much and there isn’t the same clear career progression that solicitors can pursue. Stay mindful of your prospects if this is something that’s important to you.

Further reading

The ‘Paralegal’ section on www.lawcareers.net – find it in the hover menu under the ‘Solicitors’ tab.

Other types of legal professional

Roles such as licensed conveyancer (focusing on property transactions) or probate practitioner (dealing with wills and estates) offer opportunities to develop expertise in a defined area, often through experience and additional training. Similarly, legal assistants support lawyers with tasks such as document preparation, scheduling client meetings and case management, providing an entry point into the legal profession while building practical knowledge across different areas of law. Sometimes firms will use the terms ‘paralegal’ and ‘legal assistant’ interchangeably; however, there are often clear differences in responsibilities.