Russian Speaking Paralegal

Gherson Solicitors LLP is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate based on race, religion, gender, age, sexuality, gender identification, or physical ability.

Please note that this role is fully office-based.

We are currently looking for a Russian-speaking paralegal with excellent academics and at least 6 months relevant experience to support our busy UK Inbound Immigration team. You will be responsible for the provision of first-class legal support, whilst maintaining a high degree of self-management and initiative.

Main Responsibilities

As a Russian-speaking paralegal you will provide first-class legal support to the Inbound Immigration team, maintaining self-management and initiative in a fast-paced environment.

Skills

• Strong verbal and written communication skills
• Fluent in both Russian and English
• High attention to detail
• Ability to deal efficiently with competing priorities
• Excellent organisational and interpersonal skills
• Excellent client and customer care and management
• Integrity
• Legal compliance

Knowledge and experience Required

• Immigration law
• Home Office procedure

Desirable

• Second language
• Sanctions knowledge
• Pass in SQE1

Qualifications

• Law degree, or conversion
• SQE, or
• LPC

Key Role Outcomes

Communication. Ensure that all correspondence with authorities and clients is dealt with in a timely and professional manner. Understand and uphold the firm's obligation of confidentiality to all its clients and matters.

Client Care and Administration. Create and manage both electronic and hard copy files, and prepare both electronic and hard copy bundles. Ensure that the case management system is used effectively, keeping client files up to date and filing documents and correspondence on the same day. Complete client questionnaires and submit all Home Office and Passport Office application forms, as well as all court and tribunal forms and applications.

Drafting. Provide a high level of drafting under supervision of all court pleadings, applications and supporting documentation, including letters, legal advice, statements and witness statements.

Meetings. Diarise all Home Office/court deadlines, attend appointments at courts, tribunals and all Home Office, Passport Office and OVRO appointments/interviews, routine directions, client and Counsel meetings and conferences. Moderation and note taking at meetings and calls with clients and external professionals.

Accounts and Billing. Maintain up-to-date time recording on all matters. Undertake accounts duties and billing as required and understand the Solicitors Accounts rules.

Business Development. Understand the commercial aspect of the role. Take part in networking events and write blog articles to be published on the Gherson website.

Professionalism. Deputise for other members of the team in their absence, passing urgent and complex issues to senior fee earners for guidance. Ensure that all the firm's procedures are adhered to, including AML and KYC compliance, file opening, complaints and accounts procedures.

Training. Undertake any specific training when required and fulfil a responsibility of professional self-development.

The Ideal Candidate

You will be a skilled paralegal, with demonstrable experience in Immigration. You will be high-energy, a can-do individual with excellent organisational and communication skills. You must be a strong team player able to work across several disciplines, and work well with a variety of stakeholders. Written and spoken fluency in both Russian and English is essential.