Legal Advice Centre Legal Assistant with Qualifying Work Experience Training

University of East London: Shape Your Future as a Legal Assistant at the Royal Docks School of Business & Law

The University of East London (UEL) stands as a beacon of innovation and a champion for transformative education. With a rich 125-year history of shaping futures and a "careers-first" ethos, UEL is dedicated to preparing students for the dynamic job market. Their Vision 2028 strategy highlights a commitment to reshaping education and empowering individuals from all backgrounds. UEL's excellence is recognised with accolades such as the Times and Sunday Times Good University Guide 2025 University of the Year for Teaching Quality, 1st in London for Student Experience (National Student Survey 2024), and 3rd in London for Teaching Satisfaction (Guardian University Guide 2025). If you're looking to join an institution that inspires, innovates, and empowers, UEL offers a compelling opportunity.

The Royal Docks School of Business & Law (RDSBL) is a vibrant academic community focused on delivering transformational education and real-world experience. At its heart is the Legal Advice Centre (LAC), a vital component of their community outreach and clinical legal education. Since 2014, the LAC has provided crucial free legal support to local residents, simultaneously offering students invaluable hands-on experience in areas such as housing, family, and employment law. This role is an integral part of supporting this impactful work, ensuring high-quality services for clients, students, and partners.

Opportunity: Legal Assistant (Full-time, Campus-Based)

This is an exciting opportunity for a dedicated and organised Legal Assistant to become a key player in the daily operations of UEL's Legal Advice Centre. Working in a campus-based role, you will be instrumental in ensuring the smooth running of the LAC, supporting its crucial community outreach and clinical legal education initiatives. You will collaborate closely with the LAC Director, Lead, and supervising solicitor, contributing to a supportive and enriching environment for both clients and students.

Key Responsibilities Include:

• Managing and updating client databases and case management systems.
• Providing essential support for client interactions, including communications and legal research assistance.
• Organising and promoting LAC events, workshops, and public lectures.
• Coordinating student volunteer engagement, including rota creation and monitoring.
• Handling administrative tasks, including scanning, filing, and managing confidential information.
• Managing the LAC's social media presence and creating engaging content for students.
• Coordinating meetings, room bookings, and logistical arrangements.
• Assisting with reporting requirements, including compiling statistics and preparing newsletters.
• Supporting the development of new partnerships and external collaborations.
• Ensuring adherence to data protection, client confidentiality, and equality standards.
• Maintaining your SRA training record as part of your professional development.

This role involves occasional cross-campus working and offers some flexibility to adapt to operational needs.

Advantages for Candidates:

• Impactful Work: Play a direct role in providing vital legal assistance to the local community and contributing to the development of future legal professionals.
• Career Development: Gain hands-on experience in a clinical legal setting, enhance your understanding of various legal practice areas, and benefit from UEL's commitment to professional development, including SRA training record maintenance.
• Supportive Environment: Join a vibrant and diverse academic community at a highly-regarded university, recognised for its teaching quality and student experience.
• Skill Enhancement: Develop strong administrative, organisational, and communication skills while working with sensitive client information and managing multiple priorities.
• Networking Opportunities: Build relationships with academics, students, clients, and external partners, fostering a valuable professional network.
• Inclusive Culture: UEL is an inclusive, equal-opportunities employer committed to diversity and inclusion, offering a supportive environment for all staff.

Key Considerations for Your Career Path:

• Foundational Legal Education: This role is ideal for individuals with an Undergraduate Law Degree and either completion or current enrolment on the LPC, looking to gain practical experience early in their legal careers.
• Organisational Prowess: Success in this role hinges on your ability to be organised, reliable, and detail-oriented, managing a variety of tasks and deadlines effectively.
• Communication Skills: Excellent communication and interpersonal skills are crucial for interacting professionally with clients, students, and external stakeholders.
• Proactive Approach: Candidates who are proactive, capable of taking initiative, and adept at problem-solving will thrive in this dynamic environment.
• IT Proficiency: Strong IT skills, including proficiency in Word, Excel, email, and social media management, are essential for daily operations.
• Commitment to Legal Education: An enthusiasm for supporting community-based legal services and legal education is highly valued.
• Desirable Experience: While not essential, familiarity with case management systems, monitoring student progress, or knowledge of specific areas of law relevant to the Centre would be advantageous.

Benefits Package:

UEL offers a competitive salary (dependent on experience) and a comprehensive benefits package. Further details can be found on the UEL website.

Interviews are anticipated to take place in mid-January 2026. Candidates are encouraged to submit their applications promptly, as the advert may close earlier than the stated deadline if a high volume of applications is received.