Paralegal - Dispute Resolution - Derby

Smith Partnership is a leading law firm in the East Midlands. A forward thinking and progressive company employing over 200 staff throughout 6 offices.

An opportunity has become available for a Paralegal to join our Dispute Resolution Department at our Head Office in Derby.

Purpose & Objective of Job:

To carry out Fee Earning activities in respect of EC 261/2004 flight delay claims and general dispute resolution matters. To meet performance targets as defined and to carry out other duties as determined by the Partners.

Key Responsibilities:

• Running your own case load of litigated claims (predominately claims allocated to the Small Claims Track) to include drafting pleadings, complying with directions, negotiating settlement where appropriate, instructing Counsel/Agents, processing payments and invoicing.
• Reporting on matters to the client and other stakeholders.
• Ensuring financial targets are met within the team and on a personal level.
• Contributing to business development activities.

You will need to have excellent communication skills (both written and verbal), time management experience, with the ability to work to tight deadlines.   A knowledge of Civil Procedure Rules and EC 261/2004 would be an advantage, although training will be provided.

Duties and Tasks:

• To become fully trained in all aspects of EC 261/2004 flight delay claims representing the interests of airlines
• Assist with airline passenger personal injury claims representing the interests of airlines
• Drafting pleadings
• Instructing Counsel/Agents
• Taking clients instructions and thereafter advising and liaising with clients
• Opening and closing files
• General administration duties
• To work and contribute as part of a team
• Attend meetings with clients

Experience Required:

• Small Claims Track Matters
• Word processing/typing
• General office procedures

Knowledge Required:

• Civil Procedure Rules
• EC 261/2004

Skills And Personal Attributes Required:

• Microsoft Word, Outlook, Excel
• Excellent organisational skills
• Good written and oral communication skills
• Ability to use initiative
• Ability to work as part of a team
• Ability to cope with a heavy workload
• Ability to handle pressure and to work to deadlines
• Committed to delivery excellence
• Strong business approach
• Professional with clients
• Self motivated and committed
• Treats client and colleagues with courtesy and respect

Qualifications Required:

• GCSE English Language Grade C or above
• GCSE Mathematics Grade C or above
• Law Degree

This is an excellent opportunity to join a progressive East Midlands law firm and to work as part of a challenging and friendly team.

Salary commensurate with experience.

Applications strictly via email enclosing a current CV and covering letter to (recruitment@smithpartnership.co.uk)

No Agencies please.