Bhatia Best Solicitors are a leading firm based in the East Midlands who specialise in Criminal Defence, Family Law, Personal Injury, Public Law and Community Care.

 We have an exciting opportunity for a Legal Administrator to join our busy Public Law and Community Care (Human rights) department at our Nottingham office.

 This position would suit a candidate with good administrative and secretarial skills and accounting background.

 Previous experience in a legal environment is preferred but not essential, and additional training will be offered.

 Excellent organisation skills and an ability to deal with voluminous work is essential.

 

Duties include, but are not limited to:

 1.            Assisting with file opening / closing in accordance with office procedures

2.            Reviewing client files to ensure compliance, particularly with regard to Legal Aid forms and Legal Aid funding eligibility criteria

3.            Chasing outstanding documents by preparing standard letters / emails

4.            Liaising with fee earners and secretaries

5.            Filing original documents on client files

6.            Assisting with processing invoices in accordance with office procedures

7.            Assisting with processing submissions to the Legal Aid Agency, including amendments

8.            Spreadsheet data entry

9.            Secretarial support as required

 

Working Hours

Monday to Friday, 9:00am to 5:30pm, with a one-hour lunch break from 1:00pm to 2:00pm.

Salary - Depending on experience. Please state your salary expectations in your application

 

How to Apply

Please submit your CV together with a covering letter including the role (Legal Administrator -  Public Law & Community Care – Nottingham) detailing your suitability for the role.

Due to the volume of applications received, only shortlisted candidates will be contacted. Previous applicants need not apply.

Bhatia Best Solicitors is committed to promoting equality, diversity, and inclusion. We welcome applications from all suitably qualified candidates. If you require any reasonable adjustments during the recruitment process, please let us know and we will be pleased to accommodate your needs.

Bhatia Best Solicitors is a well-established law firm based in the East Midlands, specialising in Criminal Defence, Family Law, Personal Injury, Public Law and Community Care. We are looking for an organised, proactive and professional Administration Assistant to join our busy HR department and Finance Department and to support the Practice Manager. This is an excellent opportunity for someone with strong administrative and communication skills who is looking to develop their skills. Previous administration experience required. The Role Your responsibilities will include:

• Staff Administration – Maintain accurate records relating to holidays, sickness and attendance, ensuring information is kept up to date and confidential.
• Office & Stationery Management – Monitor stationery and office supplies, placing orders as required.
• Recruitment Support – Assist with the recruitment process, including advertising vacancies, coordinating interviews and supporting pre-employment administration.
• New Starter Inductions – Welcome and support new members of staff, helping to coordinate their induction and ensuring they have a smooth start within the practice.
• Training & Development Records – Maintain accurate and up-to-date staff training records and supporting the team to ensure mandatory training is completed within the required timescales.
• Reception Cover – Provide reception cover when required, helping to ensure a welcoming, professional and efficient service for clients and visitors.
• General Administration – Provide day-to-day administrative support, including filing, scanning, photocopying, maintaining records and other office-based tasks.
• Practice Manager Support – Work closely with the Practice Manager, providing support with a variety of ad hoc administrative projects and tasks as they arise.

About You We are looking for someone who:

• Has strong organisational skills and excellent attention to detail
• Is confident communicating with staff and legal professionals
• Can manage competing priorities and work effectively in a busy environment
• Is comfortable using IT systems and has good general administrative skills
• Can work effectively both independently and as part of a team
• Understands the importance of discretion and confidentiality when dealing with sensitive information
• Has previous administration experience

Working Hours Monday to Friday, 9:00am to 5:30pm, with a one-hour lunch break from 1:00pm to 2:00pm. Salary - £24,784.50 per annum   How to Apply Please submit your CV together with a covering letter including the role (Administration Assistant -  HRF – Nottingham) detailing your suitability for the role and your salary expectations. Due to the volume of applications received, only shortlisted candidates will be contacted. Previous applicants need not apply. Bhatia Best Solicitors is committed to promoting equality, diversity, and inclusion. We welcome applications from all suitably qualified candidates. If you require any reasonable adjustments during the recruitment process, please let us know and we will be pleased to accommodate your needs.

Bhatia Best Solicitors is a leading East Midlands law firm with specialist expertise in Criminal Defence, Family Law, Personal Injury, Public Law, and Community Care. We are committed to providing exceptional legal services and achieving the best outcomes for our clients. We have an exciting opportunity for an experienced Paralegal to join our busy and expanding Family Law Department in Nottingham specialising in Divorce and Finances. This role offers the opportunity to gain valuable experience working alongside experienced legal professionals in a supportive and collaborative environment. Key Responsibilities As a Paralegal within our Family Department, you will:

• Assist in advising and supporting clients on a range of family law matters.
• Communicate professionally with clients, counsel, courts, experts, and other professionals via telephone, video conferencing, email, and in person.
• Support senior fee earners with the progression and management of case files.
• Undertake fee-earning work, including legal research, drafting correspondence, court documents, applications, and other legal documentation.
• Ensure compliance with the Specialist Quality Mark (SQM) standards and all internal procedures and quality requirements.
• Maintain accurate and up-to-date case records using the firm's case management system.
• Contribute to the efficient and profitable operation of the department.
• Participate in training and professional development initiatives.
• Support the development and integration of new team members where appropriate.
• Adhere to the firm's policies, procedures, and Office Manual.
• Maintain the highest standards of client confidentiality and legal professional privilege.
• Promote positive relationships with clients, their families, referrers, and prospective clients.

Person Specification The successful candidate will demonstrate:

• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Strong drafting skills with the ability to prepare a variety of legal documents.
• Good analytical skills and the ability to apply legal principles to factual situations.
• Effective negotiation and interpersonal skills.
• Strong organisational and time management abilities, with excellent attention to detail.
• The ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Proficiency in Microsoft 365 applications, including Outlook, Word, and Excel.

Knowledge and Qualifications Essential:

• Law degree (LLB) or equivalent legal qualification.
• Completion of, or currently studying towards, the Solicitors Qualifying Examination (SQE) or Legal Practice Course (LPC).
• Understanding of professional conduct obligations, client care standards, and confidentiality requirements.

• Previous experience in Divorce/Finances
• Experience using a legal case management system.

What We Offer

• Opportunity to develop your career within a respected and growing law firm.
• Exposure to a broad range of Family Law matters.
• Ongoing training and professional development opportunities.
• Supportive and collaborative working environment.

Working Hours This is a full-time, office-based position. Working hours: Monday to Friday, 9:00am to 5:30pm, with a one-hour lunch break. How to Apply Please submit your CV together with a covering letter including the role (Paralegal - Family Department - Nottingham) detailing your suitability for the role and your salary expectations. Due to the volume of applications received, only shortlisted candidates will be contacted. Previous applicants need not apply. Bhatia Best Solicitors is committed to promoting equality, diversity, and inclusion. We welcome applications from all suitably qualified candidates. If you require any reasonable adjustments during the recruitment process, please let us know and we will be pleased to accommodate your needs.

Bhatia Best Solicitors is a leading East Midlands law firm with specialist expertise in Criminal Defence, Family Law, Personal Injury, Public Law, and Community Care. We are committed to delivering exceptional legal services and providing outstanding support to our clients. We are seeking an organised, professional, and motivated Legal Secretary to join our busy Family team in Derby. This is an excellent opportunity for an experienced secretary looking to develop their career within a respected and growing law firm. Key Responsibilities  As a Legal Secretary, you will:

• Operate the firm's telephone system and ensure all calls are handled professionally and efficiently.
• Provide audio typing support from digital dictation for caseworkers and solicitors.
• Maintain accurate electronic file records and ensure files are kept up to date.
• Arrange, manage, and record appointments using the firm's diary and case management systems.
• Communicate effectively with clients, counsel, courts, experts, and other professionals via telephone, email, and in person.
• Provide secretarial support to caseworkers and offer cover for other departments when required.
• Open and maintain files using the firm's case management system in line with internal procedures.
• Assist with the induction and training of new recruits where appropriate.
• Maintain the highest standards of client confidentiality and legal professional privilege.
• Support the smooth and efficient running of the office and wider legal teams.

Person Specification  The successful candidate will demonstrate:

• Excellent telephone manner and strong verbal communication skills.
• A professional, courteous, and composed approach when dealing with clients and colleagues.
• Strong interpersonal skills and the ability to build positive working relationships.
• Good organisational skills with the ability to manage a varied workload and prioritise tasks effectively.
• High levels of accuracy and attention to detail.
• The ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• A proactive and flexible approach to work.

Essential Skills and Experience  Previous audio typing experience.

• Proficiency in Microsoft 365 applications, including Outlook, Word, and Excel.
• Strong administrative and organisational skills.
• Experience of working in a professional office environment.

Desirable Skills and Experience

• Previous experience working within a legal environment.
• Familiarity with legal case management systems.
• Knowledge of legal procedures and client care standards.

  Working hours: Monday to Friday, 9:00am to 5:30pm, with a one-hour lunch break. This is a full-time, office-based position. How to Apply Please submit your CV together with a covering letter outlining your suitability for the role and your salary expectations. Due to the volume of applications received, only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.   Bhatia Best Solicitors is committed to promoting equality, diversity, and inclusion. We welcome applications from all suitably qualified candidates. If you require any reasonable adjustments during the recruitment process, please let us know and we will be pleased to accommodate your needs.

Build Your Future in Criminal Defence with Bhatia Best

Police Station Accredited Representatives, LPC Graduates and Future Criminal Defence Solicitors Wanted

At Bhatia Best Solicitors, we are passionate about developing the next generation of criminal defence lawyers. We are looking for ambitious and driven individuals to join our highly regarded Criminal Defence Department in Nottingham, with a particular focus on attracting Police Station Accredited Representatives, LPC graduates, and aspiring lawyers who are ready to take the next step towards qualification and a long-term career in criminal law. Whilst we welcome applications from Paralegals with strong career aspirations, this recruitment round is specifically aimed at candidates who already hold Police Station Accreditation, have completed the LPC, or are well advanced in their route to qualification and seeking practical experience within a leading criminal defence practice.

Why Criminal Defence?

Criminal law is one of the most challenging, dynamic and rewarding areas of legal practice. Every day is different. You may be advising a client at a Police Station in the early hours of the morning, preparing a case for the Magistrates' Court, assisting with a Crown Court trial, or helping a vulnerable individual navigate the criminal justice system. Unlike many areas of law, criminal defence places you at the heart of the action from day one. It demands strong communication skills, resilience, quick thinking and a genuine desire to make a meaningful difference to people's lives. For those who thrive on responsibility, advocacy and human interaction, few legal careers offer the same breadth of experience or opportunities for development.

Why Bhatia Best?

Bhatia Best is one of the East Midlands' leading law firms, with recognised expertise across:

• Criminal Defence
• Family Law
• Personal Injury
• Public Law
• Community Care

Our Criminal Defence Department acts for clients across the region and has built a reputation for delivering exceptional legal representation, often in the most challenging circumstances. We understand that investing in people is the key to our continued success. Many of our solicitors, supervisors and managers started their careers in junior roles within the firm and progressed through hard work, training and opportunity. We are committed to identifying talented individuals and providing them with the support and experience needed to develop successful careers in criminal defence.

A Career Pathway, Not Just a Job

This role is designed for those who are serious about building a future in criminal law. Whether you are already a Police Station Accredited Representative, have recently completed the LPC, or are seeking experience before qualification through the SQE route, you will gain practical exposure to a wide range of criminal matters while working alongside experienced solicitors and advocates. You will have the opportunity to:

• Advise and assist clients at significant stages of criminal proceedings.
• Develop advocacy and litigation skills.
• Gain exposure to both Magistrates' Court and Crown Court work.
• Work closely with experienced criminal defence practitioners.
• Build the knowledge, skills and confidence required for qualification and progression.
• Demonstrate your ability and commitment with a view to securing future career development opportunities within the firm.

The Work You'll Be Involved In

You will play an important role in supporting the progression of criminal cases while developing your own practical legal skills. Your responsibilities may include:

• Supporting senior caseworkers and solicitors in the preparation and management of criminal cases.
• Conducting legal research and drafting legal documents.
• Preparing applications, statements and court documentation.
• Assisting clients and maintaining strong client relationships.
• Attending Police Stations and Courts where appropriate.
• Maintaining accurate records and case management systems.
• Working within the firm's quality and compliance framework.
• Contributing to the delivery of high-quality client care.

For accredited representatives, there will be opportunities to utilise and further develop your existing accreditation and experience within a busy and supportive department.

Who We're Looking For

We are particularly keen to hear from candidates who have:

• Police Station Accreditation; and/or
• Successfully completed the LPC; and/or
• Strong ambitions of progressing towards qualification as a Solicitor.

You will also demonstrate:

• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• Confidence, professionalism and integrity.
• Strong organisational and time-management skills.
• Attention to detail and a willingness to learn.
• A genuine interest in criminal law and criminal justice.
• The ability to work effectively as part of a team while taking responsibility for your own development.

Support, Development and Progression

At Bhatia Best, we recognise that talented lawyers need opportunities as well as guidance. You will work alongside experienced criminal defence practitioners who are committed to supporting and mentoring the lawyers of tomorrow. We actively encourage professional development and provide opportunities for individuals to demonstrate their potential and progress within the firm. Whether your ambition is to develop as a Police Station Representative, secure a Training Contract, qualify through the SQE route, or build a long-term career as a criminal defence solicitor, we offer an environment where hard work, commitment and ability are recognised and rewarded.

Equality and Diversity

We are committed to creating an inclusive workplace where all employees are treated fairly and with respect. We welcome applications from all suitably qualified candidates. If you require any reasonable adjustments to participate in the recruitment process or interviews, please let us know in advance and we will be happy to accommodate your needs.

More Than a Place to Work

We pride ourselves on creating a workplace where people can learn, develop and succeed. Our teams are collaborative, supportive and committed to achieving the best possible outcomes for clients. We invest in our people, celebrate professional achievements and provide opportunities for individuals to build careers that are both personally and professionally rewarding. If you're looking for a role that offers responsibility, challenge, development and a genuine opportunity to build a career in criminal defence law, we'd love to hear from you. Start your journey with Bhatia Best and help shape the future of criminal defence in the East Midlands.

Location: Derby Job Type: Full-Time, Permanent Salary: Competitive, dependent on experience, plus overtime and mileage payments

Join Our Criminal Defence Team

We are seeking an experienced and motivated Criminal Defence Solicitor or CILEX Practitioner to join our busy and well-established Criminal Department based in Derby. This is an excellent opportunity to become part of a highly regarded team providing representation and advice to clients across the East Midlands. Applications are welcomed from accredited Duty Solicitors, as well as experienced criminal practitioners who are actively working towards obtaining Duty Solicitor Accreditation and are looking to further develop their careers within a supportive and progressive environment. The successful candidate will possess strong advocacy skills, excellent client care standards and a commitment to delivering high-quality legal services.

The Role

You will undertake a varied caseload involving litigation and advocacy across all aspects of criminal defence practice, representing clients from the earliest stages of proceedings through to conclusion. Whilst the position is primarily based in Derby, our practice operates across the East Midlands and there may be occasional requirements to attend our other offices, Police Stations and Court Centres within the region.

Key Responsibilities

• Managing criminal cases from initial instruction through to conclusion.
• Providing advice and support to clients in person, by telephone and via video conferencing.
• Preparing case files, legal documents and applications.
• Attending the Magistrates' Court on a daily basis to represent clients in:
• First appearances and remand hearings
• Guilty and Not Guilty Anticipated Plea hearings
• Contested trials
• Sentencing hearings
• Providing Police Station advice and representation.
• Conducting litigation in Crown Court matters.
• Maintaining accurate records and compliance with internal procedures and quality standards.
• Participating in the out-of-hours rota, including Police Station attendances and Saturday/Bank Holiday Courts.

About You

Essential Requirements

• Qualified Solicitor holding a current Practising Certificate, or a suitably qualified CILEX Practitioner with the appropriate Advocacy Certificate.
• Experience practising criminal defence law and managing criminal cases.
• Strong advocacy and case preparation skills.
• Excellent oral and written communication skills.
• Ability to provide clear, practical and client-focused legal advice.
• Strong analytical, organisational and negotiation skills.
• Experience using a computerised Case Management System.
• Understanding of Criminal Legal Aid procedures and applications.
• Commitment to maintaining professional standards, client confidentiality and regulatory compliance.
• Good working knowledge of Microsoft 365 applications, including Outlook, Word and Excel.

Duty Solicitor Accreditation

Applications are welcomed from:

• Solicitors and CILEX Practitioners who currently hold CLAS Duty Solicitor Accreditation; and
• Criminal practitioners who are actively working towards Duty Solicitor Accreditation and can demonstrate the experience, ability and commitment required to achieve accreditation.

Desirable

• Current CLAS Duty Solicitor Accreditation.
• Working knowledge of SQM requirements and quality assurance procedures.
• Full UK Driving Licence.

Support for Candidates Working Towards Duty Solicitor Accreditation

We recognise the importance of developing the next generation of Duty Solicitors and welcome applications from experienced criminal practitioners who are working towards accreditation. For the right candidate, we can offer:

• Support and mentoring from experienced Duty Solicitors.
• Exposure to a broad range of criminal defence work across Police Stations and Courts.
• Opportunities to develop advocacy, client care and case management skills.
• Structured supervision and guidance to assist with progression towards accreditation.
• Career development opportunities within an established and growing criminal defence department.

What We Offer

• Competitive salary package.
• Overtime payments for out-of-hours work.
• Mileage allowance.
• Varied and interesting caseload.
• Supportive and collaborative working environment.
• Ongoing professional development and career progression opportunities.
• The opportunity to work with an experienced team committed to providing first-class criminal defence representation.

Equality and Diversity

We are committed to creating an inclusive workplace where all employees are treated fairly and with respect. We welcome applications from all suitably qualified candidates. If you require any reasonable adjustments to participate in the recruitment process or interviews, please let us know in advance and we will be happy to accommodate your needs.

How to Apply

To apply, please submit your CV and covering letter. For an informal and confidential discussion about the role, please contact our Practice Manager or Steve Ramsell, Department Manager. We look forward to hearing from you.

Personal Injury Solicitor - PI Department - Nottingham Bhatia Best is looking for an experienced Personal Injury Solicitor to join our friendly and growing Personal Injury team in Nottingham. This is an excellent opportunity for a solicitor with experience in litigated personal injury claims who wants to take ownership of a varied caseload, develop their expertise and play an important role within a supportive team. About Bhatia Best Bhatia Best is an established East Midlands law firm with offices across the region. We provide specialist legal advice across Personal Injury, Criminal Defence, Family Law, Public Law and Community Care. Our Personal Injury team acts for clients across a broad range of claims, including road traffic accidents, employers’ liability, public liability and occupiers’ liability, as well as claims arising from clinical negligence, criminal injury and historic abuse. We pride ourselves on providing high-quality, personal legal advice and putting our clients at the centre of everything we do. About the role You will manage your own caseload of claimant personal injury matters, including litigated and multi-track claims, while working alongside colleagues on more complex and substantial cases. You will have the opportunity to:

• Manage your own caseload from initial instruction through to conclusion.
• Conduct litigated personal injury claims, including multi-track matters.
• Handle road traffic accident, employers’ liability, public liability and occupiers’ liability claims.
• Take responsibility for more substantial and complex matters as your experience develops.
• Advise clients throughout the litigation process and provide clear, commercially focused advice.
• Work closely with colleagues as part of a small, friendly and supportive team.

We’re looking for a solicitor who can demonstrate:

• Ideally 1+ years’ PQE in claimant personal injury litigation.
• Experience managing litigated personal injury claims.
• A good understanding of civil procedure and the litigation process.
• Excellent client-care and communication skills.
• Strong organisation skills and the ability to manage your own caseload effectively.
• Good IT skills and confidence using case management systems.
• A collaborative approach and the ability to contribute positively to a close-knit team.

This is a full time, office-based position.  Office hours are Monday to Friday 9 a.m to 5.30 p.m with 1 hour for lunch. Please include your salary expectations within your application.  Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.  Previous applicants need not apply. We invite candidates to inform us in advance about any reasonable adjustments that they may require to take part in the selection procedure and interviews

Law Costs Draftsperson - Nottingham We are currently recruiting for an experienced Law Costs Draftsperson to work in our Public Law & Community Care Judicial Review Department. The successful candidate would be based at our Nottingham Office and would support our Public Law & Community Care Judicial Review Department. Nottingham office – Public Law & Community Care Judicial Review Department Full time – Monday – Friday, 9am – 5.30pm (office based) Salary – Above market rate – subject to experience Job Specification:

1. Costing and billing of legal aid files to include Legal Helps, Payments on Account, Final Legal Aid Claims.
2. Costing and dealing with Inter-Partes costs claims (including risk assessing, drafting replies to points of dispute and negotiating settlement with the paying party)
3. Lodging bills at Court for assessment.
4. Preparing Schedules of Costs
5. Fully conversant with CCMS and legal aid systems. Uploading documents onto CCMS in a timely manner as per LAA requests.
6. Preparing, negotiating and agreeing High Cost Case Plans
7. All aspects of cost recovery, including legal aid appeals.
8. Dealing with any rejected claims.
9. Awareness of and aptitude to meet Legal Aid KPI’s
10. Ensuring compliance with Legal Aid rules and internal office policy
11. Liaising with Counsel’s Chambers in order to obtain fee notes for billing purposes.
12. Liaising with fee earners and addressing any concerns which may be identified whilst preparing a bill
13. Undertaking other clerical and administrative duties as may be reasonably required from time to time.

Personal Specification:

1. A Costs Lawyer Professional Qualification or equivalent qualification.
2. Experience of drafting both Inter Partes and Legal Aid bills.
3. Competent cost drafting skills.
4. Competent negotiating skills.
5. Good oral and written communication skills.
6. High level of numeracy and accuracy when dealing with figures.
7. Ability to work under pressure and process a high volume of claims accurately.
8. Ability to work in a team environment and autonomously, proactively managing your own caseload.
9. Experience of using Case Management Systems.

Knowledge:

1. Knowledge and understanding of Legal Aid Agency rules relating to assessment and recovery of solicitor’s costs in publicly funded files.
2. An understanding of the rules governing Inter Partes bill preparation.
3. Court rules for lodging bills.
4. Court costs assessment procedures.
5. Basic Accounting Principles.
6. Experience of costing Judicial Review files (preferred)

We invite candidates to inform us in advance about any reasonable adjustments that they may require to take part in the selection procedure and interviews