Paralegal (12mth FTC) - Private Client and Tax

About Withersworldwide

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.

Private Client and Tax Division

Today, we are the only global law firm dedicated to the personal and private capital needs of high-net-worth individuals and families.

Many of our clients are international families with interests in a number of locations. In a fast-moving and increasingly compliance focused world, the need for integrated advice that reaches across borders has never been greater. With offices across Europe, the United States and Asia-Pacific we provide coverage that other law firms in this area cannot match. Our team of experienced private client solicitors continually look for opportunities to ensure we have a strong presence in the locations where our clients live, work and invest. 

Our advice to fiduciaries covers the design and implementation of new plans, as well as the modernization and consolidation of older trusts. We also assist them in complying with the complex rules surrounding investments, accounting, taxes and compliance.

This practice generates approximately 55% of the partnership's revenues and is the largest in the world with over 300 people. We advise on domestic and international tax, estate planning, succession and mental capacity laws in Europe, the US and Asia, as well as facilitating our client's philanthropic endeavours. We have immigration teams in the major financial centres and are well placed to deal with tax investigation and litigation cases. Real estate is very important to our clients, and we have a specialist residential and rural team. 

The Role

We are looking for a robust, career-minded Paralegal to join our Private Client and Tax team.   You will work with a broad range of clients in relation to a range of private client related legal matters.  Succession planning for international families is a key part of this role, and you will assist with implementing estate-planning arrangements for individuals.  The work will involve a mix of domestic UK and international matters.  Key elements of the role include:

• Preparing draft documents including wills, powers of attorneys and trust deeds
• Legal research 
• Document management, review and analysis
• Assisting in preparing pitches and tenders and in aspects of business development
• Assisting with client events
• Produce accurate, high-quality work quickly and efficiently, using the firm's software packages and document management systems
• Preparing first drafts of Terms of Engagement letters; using electronic file opening, ensuring anti-money laundering requirements are adhered to and requesting the necessary Know Your Client documentation
• Providing effective and proactive communication with clients, legal staff and other support staff, organising meetings, answering the phone, taking messages, managing e-mail, etc.
• Resolving accounting queries and producing monthly bills using 3E (finance and time recording system) 
• General administrative duties

Key skills and experience

• Previous experience working as a Paralegal (or in a similar role) is desirable
• Ability to acquire new skills and to understand sophisticated concepts
• Familiarity with technology e.g. Excel, Word
• Strong research skills
• Ability to work as part of a team and under pressure 
• Financial aptitude (for billing)
• Strong academics
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills

The essentials                                                                                                                              

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

For further information, please contact the recruitment team.

Information for Recruitment Agencies

Withersworldwide endeavours to recruit and fill vacancies directly. However, when we do need to engage with agencies, Withersworldwide 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 Withersworldwide 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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