Address
Form of workStart Date: Between now and early September 2024.
Location: Hybrid working (candidate should be within commuting distance of London, as we work at least twice a week from modern co-working spaces, Impact Hub, near Euston station).
Requirements: A minimum of an undergraduate degree in any subject, preferably high 2:1 or First Class (if GDL completed, commendation or above). Legal experience desirable but not essential.
About SV Law
SV Law acts primarily for local authorities in educational placement disputes before the Special Educational Needs and Disability Tribunal (SENDIST). We also act for schools in disability discrimination cases, and, more occasionally, parents in their appeals to SENDIST. There is also often overlap with other jurisdictions such as the Court of Protection and Family Court and overlapping High Court Judicial Review litigation.
Our Team
We currently have a team of SEN Tribunal paralegals who work closely with the principal, Mr Satnam Virdi. The job requires a high level of initiative as you will conduct your own caseload under supervision. There will be a very large amount of client contact, including attending and chairing meetings and taking witness statements from professionals.
Unusually, our paralegals are encouraged to advocate (with full support) at telephone hearings with Judges and even at the more routine substantive hearings before the SENDIST. This role would therefore appeal to future litigators of all types. The role can also suit those considering a career change to the legal profession, or those with legal experience in one area of law who would like to learn more about the education and disability sector.
Our SEN Tribunal paralegals typically demonstrate a social conscience and an interest in public policy issues. The emotional maturity to cope with stressful disputes involving vulnerable young people is also required, so previous work experience in the charity or education sector can be a bonus.
Previous SEN Tribunal paralegals have moved on to cutting edge human rights firms, magic circle law firms and leading public and commercial chambers (11KBW, 39 Essex Street, Atkin Chambers, Twenty Essex by way of example, as well as both High Court and Court of Appeal Judicial Assistantship schemes), and all say their experience with us proves invaluable.
Applications will be considered from paralegals, and/or solicitors/barristers who are interested in Education Law work, as well as individuals with relevant strong academics, a work ethic, and motivation to succeed or a genuine curiosity in the legal profession are essential.
In suitable cases (and where relevant), consideration will be given to a training contract.
Additional Requirements (illustrative not exhaustive)
- good research and analytical skills.
- excellent verbal and written communication skills.
- the ability to work to deadlines.
- exceptional organisational skills with the ability to manage multiple tasks.
- ability to prioritise and manage a stressful, rewarding workload.
- good IT and administrative skills.
- the appropriate candidate would be looking to join us full for at least 12 months but will consider shorter summer stints.
Send a cover email and a standard CV to Mr Satnam Virdi at svirdi@sv-law.co.uk with a cc to jwilliams@sv-law.co.uk.
For further information or to apply, please click on the 'Enquire/Apply' button below.
