Immigration Paralegal (12mth FTC)

About Withers

A law firm focused on people and collaboration. For the past 125 years, Withers has supported some of the world's most remarkable people and organisations at defining moments in their lives. We are the only international law firm focused on successful individuals and private capital, working closely with founders, investors and family offices. We also advise governments, charities, global brands and start-ups of all shapes and sizes. Many of our clients are shaping the future and creating solutions to tackle many of the world's problems.  It makes for a fascinating and challenging practice. Our role is to get to know each individual client, find out where they want to be, and help them to get there – whether they are building a business, looking after their family, involved in a complex dispute or protecting their finances for the future. To meet their unique needs we are exceptionally collaborative, working together across teams and time zones. We are agile, focusing on strategy rather than rigid ideas and traditional hierarchy. It is a truly flexible working culture that puts people first. Join us to be part of a team that is always looking to the future. Where initiative, big ideas and bold moves are always encouraged. Where you can truly be yourself.

The Department

The highly regarded Immigration team based in London undertakes a broad range of UK immigration and citizenship work.   Caseloads range from dealing with wealthy individuals, work permits and sponsor licences, immigration audits, marriage applications, tier 1 investors and entrepreneurs, applications for British citizenship and passports.   We have been heavily involved with the impact of Brexit upon EU nationals and businesses, and this will continue over the coming years.  We also advise organisations on compliance, illegal working and overall strategies and working practices.  The team is also active in a wide number of sectors working with many financial and legal institutions, media companies, start-ups, high net worth individuals and celebrities.

Our key focus is on meeting the needs of our clients who often have international lifestyles with demanding needs.   Our lawyers have trained at leading legal practices and pride themselves on their legal skills and commercial service delivery.   At the same time we aim to foster a friendly and accessible culture for all the team in which the chosen candidate will play a key role.

The Role

The role essentially encompasses a number of duties to support the Immigration team fee earners. This involves assisting a solicitor with full running of a client matter.   The role will also involve direct client exposure as well as the opportunity to liaise with third parties and the Home Office.

This role is to provide key support to the team. However, there is scope for personal development and expansion of the role to become increasingly involved in the case-working and to run files.

Key elements of the role will include but is not limited to:

• Providing full support when instructed by a new client, including conflict checks, client matter set up, due diligence, obtaining money laundering documents direct from clients;
• Drafting letters and representations in support of immigration applications;
• Assisting with the administration of files and management of deadlines primarily in relation to Home Office applications;
• Preparation of application packs for the Home office and uploading the same;
• Follow up on applications with the Home office;
• Drafting application forms to be submitted to the Home Office;
• Undertake research into new immigration categories, policies, guidance;
• Develop a familiarity of all Home Office Services, both in the UK and abroad and be able to advise clients as to the different packages;
• Assessing and collating documents received from clients, via post, drop box, emails etc.;
• Working directly with all fee earners on a range of immigration applications;
• Meet with clients and in accordance with Home Office policy, provide biometric residence permits; and
• Attend weekly team meetings, participate and knowledge exchange.

Key skills and experience

• Experience working in an immigration related environment is not essential but the ability to acquire new skills and to understand the importance of the role;
• Ability to work as part of a team and under pressure;
• Familiarity with technology e.g. excel, word;
• Flexibility;
• Strong academics; and
• Excellent written and communication skills.

The essentials

• 9.30am – 5.30pm but flexibility is a must
• 12 week probation period
• Four week notice period
• This role is a 12 month fixed term contract
• Flexible benefit package

For further information, please contact the recruitment team.

Information for Recruitment Agencies

Withers endeavours to recruit and fill vacancies directly. However, when we do need to engage with agencies, Withers operates a preferred supplier list and will not be accepting unsolicited applications from non-PSL agencies for this role.

Equal Opportunities Employment Statement

It is the policy of Withers to provide equal opportunities for all employees in relation to recruitment, training and promotion.  Decisions in these areas will be made only by reference to the requirements of the job and shall not be influenced by any consideration of age, disability, gender reassignment, marriage or civil partnership, pregnancy or maternity, race (including colour, nationality and ethnic and national origin), religion or belief, sex or sexual orientation.        

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