As an Anywhere (hybrid) Worker, your role will have a ECC base location, as shown in the advert and while you may be able to work from home / remotely some of the time, there is an expectation that as and when required by the organisation you need to attend the base location, typically at least 2 times per week and any travel time or travel cost incurred when attending the based location will not be met by the organisation.

Please note that we are also looking to recruit for a permanent role as well as this Fixed Term Contract position.

The Opportunity

Essex Legal Services (ELS) provide high quality, professional, legal advice across the council and to increasing numbers of external clients, providing a client facing legal service which proactively embraces change.

As a paralegal, you will be able to prepare court bundles, fix listing appointments for hearings and provide a professional legal service that is valued by our clients and improves their business.

Educated to degree level, with experience of working within a legal environment, the successful applicant will have the ability to build strong working relationships both with colleagues and clients and a proven track record in delivering excellent customer service.

Accountabilities

You will be responsible in assisting with the delivery of all aspects of routine legal work. Work will be non-contentious in nature and will cover healthcare, social care, contracts, regulatory, policy, inquests, Court of Protection, safeguarding and mental health matters.

Specifically, you will be working with the Health and Social Care Team. You will manage a caseload, , triage helpline queries, analyse law and guidance, analyse evidence, draft briefings to counsel and attend hearings behind Counsel, prepare court bundles, draft legal documents.

This position will be fast-paced, and it is therefore imperative you are confident in the following matters:

• Drafting and preparing legal documents for functions across the Council and to external customers.
• Interpreting the legal and business impact of changes in law and assessing these on the operations of Essex Legal Services, our partners, stakeholders and client base.
• Understanding and interpreting client needs to provide them with a service they value.
• Attending Court
• Contributing to the development of current and future business opportunities to promote ELS.
• Developing good working relationships across the Council.

The Experience You Will Bring

• Law Degree
• Experience of working within a legal setting in a public service or private sector environment is desirable although not essential.
• Proven track record of delivering excellent customer service.
• Works collaboratively with colleagues and the client base, to understand customer needs with a strong focus on delivering positive outcomes.
• Ability to develop working relationships across a large, complex organisation and with internal and external partners/ stakeholders and clients to maintain and develop business streams.