Paralegal: SEN Experience Required

An established and highly regarded law firm is seeking a Senior Paralegal to join its specialist Special Educational Needs (SEN) team. This is an excellent opportunity for a candidate with demonstrable SEN legal experience to become part of a collaborative, fast-paced, and purpose-driven environment supporting families and young people.

The role offers a supportive team structure, exposure to high-quality work, and the opportunity to develop expertise within a growing and impactful practice area.

Key Responsibilities

• Manage and triage new client enquiries, ensuring a high standard of client care from the outset
• Oversee client finances, including budgets and expert fee management
• Maintain accurate and up-to-date client files and internal databases
• Liaise regularly with clients, local authorities, schools, and the SEND Tribunal
• Draft legal documentation including Grounds of Appeal, tribunal forms, and client correspondence
• Prepare bundles, schedules of documents, and working papers relating to Education, Health and Care Plans (EHCPs)
• Request and review Subject Access Requests (SARs) from schools and local authorities
• Coordinate expert evidence, including researching, instructing, and liaising with professionals
• Support post-registration steps in appeals and draft instructions to experts
• Conduct legal and sector research and contribute written content (e.g., articles, updates)
• Assist with business development initiatives and marketing events
• Handle telephone and written communications with clients and third parties on behalf of senior fee earners
• Ensure all work is completed to a consistently high standard in line with firm processes

Essential Skills & Experience

• Proven experience working within Special Educational Needs (SEN) law
• Strong understanding of EHCP processes, SEND Tribunal procedures, and relevant legislation
• Ability to work independently within established protocols while supporting senior fee earners
• Excellent drafting and written communication skills, particularly in a legal context
• Strong organisational skills and attention to detail in managing complex caseload elements
• Confident communicator with excellent client care and interpersonal skills

Desirable Skills & Experience

• Experience handling or supporting SEN appeals and tribunal preparation
• Exposure to working with expert witnesses and managing evidence
• Experience contributing to articles or knowledge-sharing initiatives

Personal Attributes

• Proactive and self-motivated
• Empathetic and sensitive to the needs of vulnerable clients and families
• Able to balance competing priorities in a fast-paced environment
• A strong team player with the ability to also work autonomously
• Technically proficient, with solid IT skills including Microsoft Office (particularly Excel)

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