Legal Assistant needed in South London

This is a temporary role and the rate is £26.74ph PAYE

The reference number is:                   OR110833

The successful candidate will provide high‑quality legal assistant and paralegal support to childcare lawyers, senior lawyers and the Head of Team, working confidently within a busy local authority environment. They will draft applications, issue court proceedings, redact sensitive documents, manage and update court bundles in line with directions, and liaise effectively with the courts, uploading documents to FPL and other case management systems.

The role requires filing and serving documents on courts and parties, taking client instructions, minute‑taking when required, and obtaining and instructing counsel. The successful candidate will complete police disclosure requests, support continuous improvement in working practices, and hold a caseload of Section 7, Section 37 and general advice matters with minimal supervision.

They will assist lawyers in gathering documentation and instructions in accordance with court orders, diarise hearings and meetings, draft letters of instruction to experts, and support the preparation of cases for court and tribunals, attending hearings where necessary. They will maintain accurate client records and archiving systems, provide duty support, respond to legal queries arising within the team, and uphold equal opportunities in service delivery.

If you are interested in the role please apply on our website with your CV, alternatively you can email your CV to [email protected] quoting the reference number.

Essential Employment is acting as an Employment Business in relation to this vacancy. Essential Employment is an Equal Opportunities Employer.

All our roles may be subject to pre-employment checks including references so please be prepared.

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