Paralegal and vac scheme?

[radicaloptimist]

Is it possible to apply for a vacation scheme and paralegal job at the same firm? I’m in my penultimate year of law degree and haven’t been successful with any of my vac scheme applications. I will be trying again next year, but want to also apply for paralegal roles so that if this happens again, I can hopefully have secured a paralegal job so that I can get legal experience to assist my applications for the next year.

 

[Abbie Whitlock]

Is it possible to apply for a vacation scheme and paralegal job at the same firm? I’m in my penultimate year of law degree and haven’t been successful with any of my vac scheme applications. I will be trying again next year, but want to also apply for paralegal roles so that if this happens again, I can hopefully have secured a paralegal job so that I can get legal experience to assist my applications for the next year.

Hey!

From my understanding, it is possible, although I'd check each firm's individual policy as it can vary!

I know a few people who were working as paralegals at a firm and then completed a vacation scheme at that same firm, so being a paralegal there doesn't automatically stop you applying for the VS route. Some firms treat the process separately, whereas others may restrict multiple active applications or encourage a different route (i.e. direct TC instead).

More generally, I think your plan makes sense - applying for paralegal roles alongside VS applications is a good way to build experience and keep options open if the VS route doesn't work out this cycle.

However, I wouldn't feel too much pressure to secure a paralegal role specifically whilst still at university - other roles, such as in a legal clinic or in admin positions, can also help you develop really strong transferable skills for future applications.

Best of luck with the next cycle!