Court of Protection Paralegal

Job Description: Court of Protection Legal Assistant / Paralegal

Location: Preston

Department: Court of Protection / Private Client

Contract: Full-time, Permanent

The Firm

We are a well-established and respected law firm based in Preston, recognised for delivering high-quality legal services with a client-focused and compassionate approach. Our specialist Court of Protection team supports vulnerable individuals, families and professional deputies. Due to continued growth, we are seeking a dedicated Legal Assistant / Paralegal to join our team.

The Role

This is an excellent opportunity for an organised and empathetic Legal Assistant or Paralegal to develop their career within the Court of Protection and wider Private Client field. You will work alongside fee-earners and senior colleagues to support the management of finances, welfare matters and property affairs for clients who lack capacity.

Key responsibilities include:

• Assisting solicitors and professional deputies with the ongoing management of client affairs under deputyship or attorneyship.
• Preparing Court of Protection applications, supporting documents, and relevant forms.
• Liaising with vulnerable clients, family members, carers, case managers, local authorities and medical professionals.
• Managing and maintaining accurate financial records, including budgeting, payments, monitoring expenditure and reviewing care costs.
• Drafting correspondence, legal documents and reports with a high level of attention to detail.
• Handling day-to-day administration such as file management, diary support and responding to client enquiries.
• Assisting with statutory reporting, including annual deputyship accounts and OPG compliance requirements.
• Conducting legal research and supporting colleagues in ongoing case management.

About You

We are looking for an organised and compassionate individual who is committed to supporting vulnerable clients and delivering outstanding service.

Essential skills and attributes:

• Previous experience in a Court of Protection, Private Client, mental capacity or social care setting (or a strong desire to develop in this area).
• Excellent organisational skills with the ability to manage competing priorities.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills, with a professional and empathetic manner.
• Accuracy and attention to detail, particularly with financial information and formal documentation.
• Ability to build rapport with clients and work collaboratively within a team.
• Competent IT skills and experience using case management systems.
• A genuine interest in Court of Protection work and supporting those who lack mental capacity.

Desirable:

• A law degree, LPC/SQE, or previous paralegal experience in a similar role.
• Knowledge of the Mental Capacity Act and related regulations.

What We Offer

• The chance to join a friendly, supportive and reputable Preston-based firm.
• A varied and meaningful workload supporting vulnerable individuals.
• Ongoing training and clear career development opportunities.
• Competitive salary and benefits package.

To apply please contact Millie Ebbrell @ Simpson Judge Legal.