Paralegal

Shape your future as a solicitor with a firm committed to meaningful career progression from day one. At VWV, developing paralegals into high performing trainee solicitors isn't a side initiative it's how we grow. In addition to attracting external applicants for training contracts, we're working hard to strengthen our internal qualification route, enabling ambitious paralegals to start building the foundations of their future training contract from the moment they join us. We believe in potential, not perfection. All paralegals that join VWV in the hope of securing a training contract receive clear guidance, structured support and actionable feedback at the end of the training contract application process. From day one in your paralegal role, you'll be actively encouraged to apply, as at VWV not securing a training contract on your first attempt is not a setback, it's part of the journey. As a paralegal at VWV, the work you do every day genuinely counts. Your supervisor will be closely involved in supporting, assessing, and recognising your performance, and that insight feeds directly into your future training contract application. It's a model that benefits everyone; we're able to assess your potential in real time, which in turn gives you the opportunity to demonstrate it from day one. And if successful, by the time you begin your training contract, you'll already be familiar with our IT systems and the firm's structure meaning you can hit the ground running. It's a win–win situation for all. We're looking to build a talent pool of motivated, high-quality paralegals ready to step into upcoming opportunities expected to open in Bristol and Watford with a February start date. We're wanting to engage with candidates now with a view to holding in person interviews and online assessments in early January with our Early Talent team. Have a watch of this clip of Hattie West when she was a paralegal, since filming this Hattie's now started her training contract, but here she talks about how she thinks her role as a paralegal at VWV will aid her transition to trainee solicitor: Hattie West - Trainee Solicitor VWV (from paralegal to trainee). Who We're Looking For. Whilst your ultimate goal will be to secure a training contract, you'll either be a recent graduate looking to gain hands-on paralegal experience to support your applications, or an experienced paralegal feeling unsure about where you need to improve after receiving limited feedback when applying. Our approach is built around clarity, support and development giving you a pathway where your potential is recognised and your growth is actively supported. We place a strong emphasis on behavioural alignment. We're a collaborative, team-oriented firm and value people who are motivated by shared success, if you're conscientiousness with a genuine client-service mindset you'll likely to succeed at VWV. We're striving to be an inclusive employer of choice. We welcome individuals who want to contribute to our DE&I commitments and help build a workplace where everyone feels they truly belong. Above all, we're looking for candidates who are genuinely engaged with our firm and excited about the route and support we offer, so if something resonates with you about VWV, whether that's our sectors, our supportive culture, the way we champion internal progression, an engaging discussion with one of our trainees or Early Talent team at a careers fair, or even just this talent attraction campaign, then we'd love to hear from you. Where Will You Be Working? VWV supports hybrid working and equips all paralegals for home working. However, for our early talent, we believe it's crucial for development to gain as much exposure to office life as possible, so all paralegal roles are predominantly office-based. That said, we're happy to discuss individual circumstances and hybrid arrangements as part of our assessment process. Why Choose Us? There are so many reasons to stop and explore VWV further. We're known for our friendly and welcoming culture where teamwork and collaboration are key. There's no pigeon-holing or glass ceilings here, just a professional yet relaxed culture where you can finally be yourself. At VWV, we're committed to your growth with our bespoke Learning Academy, offering structured career-level programs across core business areas to prepare you for promotion opportunities and career advancement - join us to unlock your full potential. We're striving to be an inclusive employer of choice, to create a workplace environment that promotes and values diversity, where everyone, regardless of background, can reach their full potential. During the assessment process we've supported a range of reasonable adjustments in the past though we continue to learn and evolve to create the best possible candidate experience for everyone. If you'd like to discuss what's possible — even if you're not sure what you might need — please reach out to our recruiter, who'll be happy to talk through options and share what's worked well for others. How To Apply. All you need to do is click on the "Apply Now" button to upload your CV and a separate cover letter, explaining why our internal track to qualification appeals to you. Within your cover please also be clear on which location you're applying for as candidates will only be considered for one location. And if you've already applied or planning to apply for our live training contract opportunity, the great news is you can do both Recruitment Agencies. Please note that VWV manages all paralegal recruitment directly and does not engage recruitment agencies for these roles. Any unsolicited CVs sent to VWV Partners, or our Talent Acquisition Team will be treated as gifts, with no fees payable.