£28,598 per annum
As a modern, flexible and effective organisation, at Suffolk County Council we’re driven to make a positive difference to the environment, the communities we serve and the careers of our people.
That’s why, when you join us as a Paralegal, you’ll be encouraged to share your fresh thinking and empowered to explore new ideas that will shape and improve our services as well as your career.
Reimagine the possibilities.
Your role and responsibilities
As a Paralegal in the Children's Safeguarding Team, you'll play an important role in helping Suffolk County Council deliver high-quality legal support that makes a real difference to communities across Suffolk. Working alongside experienced lawyers, you'll assist with a wide range of legal matters, preparing documents, researching issues, managing casework and supporting clients across the organisation. This is a varied and rewarding role where no two days are the same. You'll build strong relationships with colleagues and stakeholders, provide clear and practical advice on legal processes, and help ensure the Council's interests are protected. It's an excellent opportunity to develop your legal knowledge, gain valuable public sector experience and contribute to meaningful work that supports local residents and services.
- Supporting lawyers, advocates and caseworkers in care proceedings
- Liaising with clients in Children’s Services
- Preparing court bundles
- Arranging DNA testing and drug testing
- Liaising with external solicitor firms and the Family Court
- Arranging legal representation for court hearings
- Providing crucial support to your colleagues by performing administrative tasks such as file and diary management.
You will be offered the training and supervision that you need to fulfil the role effectively and work collaboratively with colleagues in a close and supportive team.
You will need
- excellent organisational skills and attention to detail with a flexible but rigorous approach to your work
- the ability to use and adapt to technology to promote efficiency and productivity
- clear and professional communication
- a willingness and aptitude for learning
- to enjoy collaboration with colleagues and client officers
- to have an honours degree and/or relevant work experience in a legal setting.
You can view a full list of requirements in the Job and Person Profile, which you will find in the how to apply section below. If you believe you can succeed in this role, apply. Even if you don't meet all requirements, still apply. We would appreciate the opportunity to consider your application.
The team
Legal Services is made up of teams specialising in Safeguarding (Children and Adults), Education, Commercial, Planning, Property and Highways, Disputes & Employment, and Local Land Charges. Paralegals are enabled to move between the teams, when required by the needs of the organisation, which brings opportunities for building a broad skillset and identifying routes for career development.
Staff are expected to attend the office 40% of their working week (2 days if working full time) to include their teams allocated office day.
Empowering Everyone
We’re big believers in potential, possibility and the power of different ideas. We’re always searching for ways to encourage, respect and enable everyone to be the best they can be. We want to represent the diverse communities we serve. We welcome applications from all individuals, especially those from groups that are currently underrepresented in the organisation, as shown in our Workforce Equality Report.
For more information
Please contact Emily Dundon (she/her), for a casual conversation. You can reach her by calling 01473 264198 or emailing emily.dundon@suffolk.gov.uk
Closing date: 28 September 2026
For further information or to apply, please click on the 'Enquire/Apply' button below.
