QWE Paralegal roles in London beginning in January?

[Newcomer14]

Hi all. I've just finished my SQE2 exams. I'm really keen to secure a QWE paralegal role in London beginning in January. I have 4 vac schemes on my CV and other commercial experience. The recruiters I've talked to so far haven't been that helpful. I'm flexible about the area, as long as it's QWE in London. Can anyone give me any advice, e.g. on recruiters, agencies, how to secure a role? Any advice is much appreciated, thanks!

 

[RasAlGhul]

Congrats on finishing SQE2, that’s a huge hurdle out of the way. For context, I’ve paralegalled at Linklaters, Allen & Overy and several other firms, and I’ve also supported candidates at this exact stage, so a few honest points based on what actually works:

1. Use recruiters and apply directly (dont rely on just one)!

Recruiters can be useful, but they shouldn’t be your only route. Many recruiters aren’t especially motivated by paralegal or QWE roles, and some don’t fully understand what counts as QWE. Definitely speak to legal specific recruiters, but at the same time:
Apply directly to firms advertising paralegal or FTC roles
Send speculative applications to firms you’d realistically want to qualify at
Target mid-sized City firms, internationals, and strong boutiques, they’re often more flexible on QWE than people expect

The candidates who do best treat recruiters as one channel, not the strategy.

2. Be very clear (early) about QWE

From the outset, flag that:
You’ve completed SQE2
You’re looking for a paralegal role that will count as QWE
You’ll need a supervising solicitor to sign it off

Most firms are fine with this, they just don’t like it being raised late.

3. Leverage your vac scheme proeprly

Four vac schemes is a real strength, but it can also raise an unspoken question in interviews and recruiter calls:
“Why do you want to join us rather than the firms you’ve already vac schemed at?”
You should be absolutely ready to answer that in a clear, positive way, not because those firms rejected you, but because:
-You’ve reflected on what kind of work, culture, and training suits you best
-This firm aligns better with that than the vac scheme firms did

I’ve seen strong candidates stumble here because they hadn’t prepared for that angle.

4. Reach out to your vac scheme contacts

This is hugely underused. Message:
Supervisors
Trainees
HR contacts

Let them know you’ve finished SQE2 and are looking for a paralegal/QWE role. Even if there’s nothing immediately available, referrals and internal recommendations do happen.

You’re in a good position, it’s about being targeted and prepared. Feel free to reach out.