Graduate Paralegal CV Template Example
Starting your legal career as a graduate paralegal can be both exciting and overwhelming. The paralegal role is often the stepping stone into a rewarding career within the legal profession. A graduate paralegal typically supports solicitors and barristers by conducting legal research, drafting documents, preparing case files, liaising with clients, and ensuring deadlines are met. This role requires excellent organisational skills, keen attention to detail, and the ability to work under pressure in a demanding but highly respected environment.
In the UK, the average salary for a graduate paralegal ranges from £20,000 to £28,000 per year depending on location, firm size, and level of responsibility. In London, salaries tend to be higher, with some firms offering upwards of £30,000 to outstanding candidates. With experience, this figure can rise significantly, especially if you move into senior paralegal, trainee solicitor, or associate roles.
The key to breaking into this competitive field is having a well-structured, interview-winning Graduate Paralegal CV. Let me, Jerry Frempong, your trusted UK-based career coaching professional of over 25 years, guide you step by step on how to craft a CV that not only gets noticed but lands you interviews in top firms.
Why your Graduate Paralegal CV matters
Your CV is your first impression. Recruiters and hiring managers in law firms are inundated with hundreds of applications for every graduate paralegal opening. On average, they spend less than 30 seconds scanning each CV before deciding whether to move forward. That means your CV needs to stand out instantly by being concise, well-presented, and filled with the right keywords to pass Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS).
Think of your CV as your personal marketing document. It’s not just a list of what you’ve studied or where you’ve worked – it’s a compelling story that demonstrates your potential, highlights your legal knowledge, and shows that you have the skills required to thrive in a fast-paced legal environment.
Graduate Paralegal CV Structure
When writing your Graduate Paralegal CV, always stick to a clear and logical structure. Here’s the tried-and-tested format that I recommend:
Header with Contact Details
Full name
Professional email address (avoid nicknames or casual addresses)
Mobile number
LinkedIn profile (make sure it is polished and matches your CV)
Professional Profile / Personal Statement
A powerful 4–6 sentence opening summary that highlights your education, legal experience, and motivation for entering the legal field.
Example: “Ambitious LLB Law graduate with strong legal research and case preparation skills, seeking to contribute as a Graduate Paralegal in a dynamic London law firm. Proven experience in drafting legal documents, client care, and working effectively under pressure during internships with top-tier firms. Highly organised, detail-oriented, and eager to progress toward a career as a solicitor.”
Key Skills Section
Bullet point list of legal and transferable skills such as:
Legal research and analysis
Drafting and reviewing contracts
Client communication
Case preparation and file management
Time management and multitasking
Microsoft Office and legal software (e.g., LexisNexis, Westlaw)
Education
List your most recent qualification first (LLB, LPC, or GDL if applicable).
Include university name, degree, and dates.
Mention relevant modules (Contract Law, Criminal Law, Tort Law, etc.) and academic achievements.
Work Experience
Even if you don’t have direct paralegal experience, include internships, legal placements, voluntary work at legal clinics, or part-time roles that demonstrate transferable skills.
Use strong action verbs: drafted, prepared, liaised, researched, supported.
Example: “Assisted solicitors in preparing court bundles and conducted legal research for ongoing cases, ensuring accuracy and efficiency under tight deadlines.”
Additional Achievements & Interests
Moot court participation, debating society, pro bono work, or volunteering.
These demonstrate dedication to law and strong communication skills.
References
Either provide two references or state “Available upon request.”
How to write a Graduate Paralegal CV personal statement
Your personal statement is arguably the most important part of your CV. It’s the first thing employers read and sets the tone for the rest of your document. Make sure it conveys passion for law, professionalism, and readiness to contribute. Keep it short, direct, and filled with keywords that employers are searching for.
Avoid vague statements like “I am a hardworking graduate.” Instead, use evidence-based examples that show what you can do. Remember, recruiters want to see results and achievements.
Top tips for graduates writing their first Paralegal CV
Tailor your CV for each application. Generic CVs are rarely successful. Use the job description as a guide and mirror the language used.
Highlight legal research skills. Many graduates forget this crucial area. Employers want to know you can handle complex legal databases and synthesise information effectively.
Show attention to detail. Law is detail-driven. Typos or formatting issues will immediately disqualify your application.
Include relevant internships. Even short work experience placements in law firms can make a big difference.
Keep it to two pages maximum. Recruiters don’t have time for long CVs.
Advice for graduates, middle, and senior paralegals
While this guide is primarily aimed at graduates, it’s worth considering how CV expectations shift as you progress.
Graduates: Focus on education, internships, and transferable skills. Show motivation and commitment to the legal profession.
Mid-level paralegals: Employers expect evidence of impact. Highlight achievements, client case successes, and specific contributions to legal teams.
Senior paralegals or management-level: Emphasise leadership, mentoring, and supervisory responsibilities. Show business acumen, case outcomes, and ability to manage high-value clients or projects.
The Do’s and Don’ts of a Graduate Paralegal CV
Do’s:
Do tailor your CV for every paralegal application.
Do use strong action verbs (drafted, supported, liaised).
Do quantify achievements (e.g., “Prepared 15+ case bundles weekly”).
Do keep the layout clean and professional.
Do align your CV with your LinkedIn profile.
Don’ts:
Don’t include irrelevant personal details (age, marital status, photos).
Don’t use clichés like “team player” without evidence.
Don’t overload your CV with jargon.
Don’t lie about experience – firms will check.
Don’t submit without proofreading multiple times.
General career advice for aspiring paralegals
Remember that your CV is just the first step. Networking, building a strong LinkedIn presence, and actively seeking opportunities are equally important. Attend law career fairs, connect with recruiters, and engage with professional groups online.
If you’re a graduate, don’t be discouraged if you don’t land your dream firm straight away. Many successful solicitors and barristers started in smaller firms or niche areas of law before moving into larger practices. What matters most is gaining experience, developing your skillset, and continually updating your CV to reflect your growth.
Conclusion: Take your Graduate Paralegal CV to the next level
Crafting an interview-winning Graduate Paralegal CV template example is about more than listing your qualifications – it’s about presenting yourself as the ideal candidate for the role. With the right structure, impactful language, and a tailored approach, you can secure interviews and take the first step into your legal career.
I’ve coached thousands of professionals over the past 25 years, and I know what works. If you’d like expert support to ensure your CV and LinkedIn profile are polished, professional, and truly stand out, book an appointment today: Book an appointment with CV London
