Junior Paralegal Resume Example

Overview

Paralegal roles are an increasingly popular route into the legal profession, whether you plan to qualify as a solicitor through SQE or pursue the CILEx pathway. Law firms hiring junior paralegals want to see that you can handle case files, conduct research efficiently, and communicate with clients professionally. A law degree helps, but practical experience is what makes the difference.

Chioma Eze is a law graduate from the University of Westminster who completed a 6-month paralegal internship at Penningtons Manches Cooper, a mid-sized firm in London. Her resume works because it shows real litigation support work with specific case volumes, claim values, and court preparation experience.

What Makes This Resume Work

Litigation experience with case values named. Managing 25 active matters with claims from £50,000 to £3.2 million shows Chioma has worked across a range of dispute sizes. This gives employers confidence that she can handle both routine and complex cases.

Legal research that produced deliverables. Researching 15 specific points of law and producing memos for fee earners is more compelling than simply saying "assisted with research." It shows the research had a purpose and an audience.

Court preparation experience. Preparing bundles for 4 hearings at the High Court and County Court is hands-on, practical work that many junior paralegals have not done. It demonstrates familiarity with court procedures and the ability to work to strict deadlines.

Pro bono experience that shows commitment. Volunteering at a free legal advice clinic for 2 years, helping 4 to 6 clients per session, demonstrates genuine interest in the law and strong client-facing skills. It also shows Chioma can explain legal concepts to people without legal backgrounds.

Key Takeaways

For junior paralegal roles, describe the number of cases you supported, the types of work you did (research, drafting, bundle preparation), and the claim values or areas of law involved. Name the legal databases you used (Westlaw, LexisNexis, Practical Law). If you have pro bono or clinic experience, include it because it demonstrates both client skills and commitment to the profession. A CILEx or SQE qualification in progress adds credibility to your application.