Serious & General Crime Paralegal

We are looking for a paralegal to join our Serious & General Crime department for a fixed term contract of 12 months.

We are ranked by Chambers & Partners and Legal 500 as being amongst the best in the UK for defending clients involved in police investigations and criminal prosecutions at every level. Our team is made up of individuals at the top of their game, with small caseloads allowing them time to uphold the immaculate standard of client care and case preparation we pride ourselves on.

This is an opportunity to join a non-hierarchical and collaborative firm with a welcoming environment and plenty of opportunity for learning & development.  We understand the importance of maintaining a healthy work-life balance.

The role

The successful applicant will have the opportunity to take on fee-earning work, attend meetings and contribute meaningfully to client matters from the outset. The job will involve:

• legal research and drafting;
• examining and analysing documents and video evidence;
• meeting witnesses and clients;
• attending conferences with counsel;
• letter writing;
• liaising with courts, experts and other parties;
• assisting with billing tasks, filing and other administrative tasks.

The applicant

At Hickman & Rose, we are proud that our many diverse life experiences have come together to make us the firm we are today.

We understand that sometimes the right career path isn’t always clear from the outset, and that there can be obstacles to overcome along the way to a fulfilling career. We don’t believe these should be a barrier to entry. You might feel that due to your circumstances, your academic record doesn’t reflect your true potential or that your work experience is limited or not specifically suited to a career in law. Nevertheless, we would encourage you to apply. We are looking for someone who shares our passion for providing the best possible legal representation to our clients, no matter what their situation is.

We are looking for someone who:

• has a demonstrable interest pursuing a career in criminal defence
• has a strong knowledge of criminal law and procedure
• has completed the LPC, SQE 1 or BPC, or equivalent.
• has excellent interpersonal skills and the ability to work with clients and colleagues from a multitude of backgrounds
• can demonstrate strong intellectual ability and effective communication skills
• is able to work effectively both independently and as part of a team to secure the best possible outcome for our clients
• is confident in their use of technology and a fast learner.

Our paralegal roles provide a great stepping stone for all legal professionals, regardless of their chosen path.

For aspiring solicitors following the SQE route, the successful applicant will have the opportunity to develop some of the competencies outlined in the Statement of Solicitor Competence and as such this role may count towards Qualifying Work Experience.

For aspiring barristers, this role offers practical experience and exposure to criminal law and procedure which is highly beneficial in building a strong foundation for careers at the Criminal Bar.

Please apply by submitting an Equality and Diversity Monitoring form using the link below, and send your CV and covering letter to recruitment@hickmanandrose.co.uk.  Please label the subject matter as “Serious & General Crime Paralegal”.

Closing date for applications is Sunday, 3 August 2025.

Shortlisting for this role may take place as applications are received. We therefore reserve the right to close this vacancy once suitable candidates have been appointed.

Start date: ASAP
Salary: £28,500 pa pro rata

We are an equal opportunities employer, committed to increasing diversity in our firm and the wider profession.  Applications from candidates from underrepresented groups and non-traditional backgrounds are particularly encouraged. If you require any reasonable adjustments for any part of the recruitment process, please let us know.

Equality, Diversity and Inclusion monitoring form