By Chantal Cooke, CEO of the National Association of Licensed Paralegals (NALP)
Exploring a career in law but want a route that is flexible, accessible and increasingly in demand? Becoming a paralegal could be both the ideal starting point and a long-term profession in its own right.
This article explains what a paralegal is, the type of work they do and how you can train to become one in the UK (specifically in England and Wales).
What is a Paralegal?
A paralegal is a trained legal professional who carries out substantive legal work but is not a qualified solicitor or barrister.
Paralegals can do much the same work as solicitors, with the exception of ‘reserved activities’. These are activities reserved for solicitors and barristers only.
Under Section 12 of The Legal Services Act 2007, there are six reserved activities that remain the monopoly of solicitors and barristers:
- The right to conduct litigation (only solicitors have the right to do this)
Issuing proceedings for a client and any associated actions in relation to this and acting as agent for any client in such proceedings; unless they are exempt because a specific court grants permission in a specific case.
- The right of audience (barristers or solicitors or solicitor/advocates have this right)
The right to appear before a court and speak on behalf of a client and examine witnesses; unless exempt because the specific court grants permission in a specific case.
- Reserved instrument activities (solicitors or licensed conveyancers have the right to do this)
This includes activities like preparing a form of transfer of property and being able to lodge such at The Land Registry; although it excludes the right to draft such documents.
- Probate activities (only granted to solicitors)
For example, preparation of probate documents for the purposes of the law of England and Wales or any proceedings (e.g. contesting a grant of probate or letters of administration) but excludes the right to be able to draft Wills and Powers of Attorney.
- Notarial activities (notaries only have this right)
These activities are quite specific and refer to activities in relation to The Public Notaries Act 1801.
- The right to administer oaths (only solicitors have this right)
This right is conferred on a commissioner of oaths under various statutes.
What work can paralegals do?
There is a broad spectrum of legal areas that a paralegal can deal with and relatively few that they cannot. For example, they can help with monetary disputes or claims, employment, housing, corporate transactions, family law and welfare matters, to name just a few.
Paralegals are often described as the backbone of legal teams, and they work in a variety of sectors, not just in law firms. For example, there are paralegal jobs in football clubs, fashion houses, local government, tech and gaming, criminal law, police stations, human rights, animal welfare, the environment and large corporates.
Typical responsibilities include:
* Conducting legal research and analysing case law
* Drafting legal documents such as contracts
* Managing case files and preparing court bundles
* Liaising with clients, witnesses and other professionals
* Assisting with case preparation and transactions
* Attending court or meetings in a support role
Paralegals may also interview clients, gather evidence and ensure cases progress efficiently within strict deadlines.
How to become a paralegal
In England and Wales paralegals are not statutorily regulated, meaning people enter the profession through a variety of routes and backgrounds.
- Education and qualifications
Although having a law degree or an Ofqual regulated paralegal qualification will help with your career progression and earning potential, it is not an essential. That said, most employers are looking for people with some legal knowledge.
Entry level qualifications start at Level 3, and you can progress all the way to Level 7 (post graduate equivalent).
Qualifications can be studied full or part time, in-person or remotely, so do your research to find the right Level of qualification for you, and the right Centre for your learning preferences. Good paralegal qualifications, like those regulated by Ofqual, are structured to provide both legal theory and practical skills, helping learners build a strong foundation for employment in the legal sector.
- Gaining practical experience
Experience is crucial. Whether paid or voluntary, gaining experience will always stand you in good stead.
There are a variety of ways to do this, including entry-level legal assistant or admin roles, internships or volunteering in law firms, legal clinics or charities, or securing a paralegal apprenticeship.
Many employers prioritise hands-on experience alongside formal academic qualifications.
- Developing key skills
Beyond a knowledge of the law, successful paralegals need to have: strong attention to detail; excellent written and verbal communication; research and analytical skills; organisation and time management skills; and the ability to work under pressure.
These competencies are just as important as formal qualifications when securing a job and they will play a large role in your ability to progress your career.
- Professional recognition
While not mandatory, joining a professional paralegal membership body, such as the National Association for Licensed Paralegals, can be helpful. Membership demonstrates professionalism, enhances career prospects, and provides access to networking and job opportunities, as well as a range of other benefits.
Why choose a paralegal career?
Most importantly it is a highly rewarding career, with lots of opportunities for career progression, and the ability to work in a wide variety of sectors, not just law firms.
In addition, a paralegal career does not require full time study or running up education debts, there are multiple entry routes and career paths, the earning potential is significant, and there is a high demand for paralegals in both the UK and abroad. Plus, experienced paralegals can apply for a Licence to Practice and then set up their own paralegal practice offering their services direct to the public.
Paralegals are an essential and evolving part of the legal profession, and are increasingly being recognised in their own right.
Conclusion
Becoming a paralegal in the UK is an achievable and rewarding goal for anyone with an interest in law and a willingness to develop practical skills. With structured training routes such as NALP qualifications, growing demand across sectors, and the opportunity to build a meaningful legal career without the traditional barriers, it is a profession worth serious consideration.
Whether you see it as a stepping stone into law or a career destination in itself, the paralegal role offers a unique combination of opportunity, responsibility and impact.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Chantal Cooke is CEO of the National Association of Licensed Paralegals (NALP), a non-profit membership body and the only paralegal body that is recognised as an awarding organisation by Ofqual (the regulator of qualifications in England). Through its Centres around the country, accredited and recognised professional paralegal qualifications are offered for those looking for a career as a paralegal professional.
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