Job Description

We are seeking a dedicated, client-focused Family Paralegal to join our client's Family team, based in Watford. The successful candidate will provide high-quality paralegal support on a varied caseload of family law matters, ensuring efficient case progression, accurate documentation and excellent client care within a collaborative firm that values technical competence, continuous professional development and high standards.

This role will involve supporting solicitors on a range of matters including private law children proceedings, couple and separation work (including financial remedy and divorce), domestic abuse matters and associated court applications and hearings. The post offers opportunities for professional development, involvement in process improvement and hybrid working following successful completion of the probationary period.

Key responsibilities:

• Provide proactive administrative and legal support across a mixed-complexity family caseload from opening files through to post-hearing actions, ensuring timely progression and accurate record keeping.

• Prepare and check correspondence, court forms (for example C100, FL401, FM1 and other family procedure forms), position statements, witness statements and bundle schedules under solicitor supervision.

• Assist with drafting applications, statements of issues and financial disclosure documents; collate and organise evidence, schedule assets and support the preparation of financial settlement documentation.

• Liaise with clients, expert witnesses, court staff, Cafcass, local authorities, barristers and other third parties to obtain documentation, chase outstanding matters and progress matters towards hearing and resolution; escalate issues as appropriate.

• Undertake client care and AML procedures, verify identity where required, maintain audit-ready files and ensure compliance with the firm’s risk, file management and regulatory requirements.

• Use and maintain case management systems and digital precedents; open and close files, record time and assist with billing and fee estimate preparation where required.

• Support solicitors at hearings by preparing bundles, instructions to counsel and attendance notes; attend court or remote hearings as required to assist the fee-earner.

• Contribute to continuous improvement by maintaining precedents, checklists and workflows; help identify opportunities to streamline processes and enhance the client experience.

• Provide support and guidance to paralegals and more junior colleagues where appropriate; participate in training and knowledge-sharing to foster a supportive team environment.

Key skills and experience required:

• Demonstrating familiarity with private law children matters, divorce/financial remedy work and common court procedures; with at least 6 months experience working in family law support or within a family team.

• Practical experience preparing family court forms, statements and hearing bundles; accuracy in drafting, checking documents and following instructions.

• Understanding of Family Procedure Rules, relevant court processes and timescales; experience of preparing for hearings and managing post-hearing actions advantageous.

• Excellent client care and communication skills with the ability to manage sensitive matters, maintain professional relationships and manage client expectations compassionately and professionally.

• Organised and able to manage competing priorities and a busy workload; strong attention to detail and the ability to meet deadlines under supervision.

• Ability to work collaboratively within a team, support colleagues and contribute positively to firm culture; professional discretion and confidentiality are essential.

• Proficiency with case management systems and standard office IT applications; willingness to adopt and help embed digital workflows and precedents.

• Commitment to personal and professional development and to supporting the delivery of commercial, client-focused legal services.