Disputes Paralegal - Future Trainee with 12 months to work

City of London Interim View Job Description
An elite American disputes-focused law firm is seeking a Future Trainee Paralegal to join its London office on a 12-month fixed-term contract, commencing between November and December 2026, prior to starting a future training contract. This is an outstanding opportunity to gain first-class experience supporting market-leading litigation and arbitration lawyers on complex cross-border matters.
  • Secure 12 months of hands-on disputes experience before your Training Contract
  • Work directly with leading litigation and arbitration lawyers

About Our Client

Our client is a highly respected American law firm recognised for its exclusive focus on complex disputes, investigations and arbitration matters. The London office advises multinational corporations, financial institutions and high-profile clients on significant commercial litigation and cross-border disputes.

The firm is seeking a Future Trainee Paralegal available to commence in November or December 2026 and commit to a 12-month fixed-term contract before commencing their training contract. This role offers exceptional exposure to high-calibre legal work within a collegiate and intellectually rigorous environment.

Job Description

  • Support fee earners across a range of commercial litigation and arbitration matters
  • Assist with document review, disclosure and case management processes
  • Conduct legal and factual research on complex issues
  • Prepare bundles, chronologies and case summaries
  • Draft correspondence and assist with court filings
  • Liaise with clients, counsel, experts and external providers
  • Support trial, hearing and arbitration preparation
  • Assist with witness evidence and document collection exercises
  • Maintain matter files and case management systems
  • Undertake administrative tasks relating to live disputes
  • Monitor deadlines and ensure procedural requirements are met
  • Assist partners and associates with ad hoc project work
  • Support business development and knowledge management initiatives
  • Contribute to a collaborative and high-performing team culture

The Successful Applicant

  • Due to commence a training contract in approximately 12 months' time
  • Available to commit to a full-time 12-month fixed-term contract
  • Strong academic background, ideally achieving a 2:1 or above
  • Previous paralegal, vacation scheme or legal work experience preferred
  • Demonstrable interest in litigation, disputes or arbitration
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills
  • Strong organisational and time management abilities
  • High attention to detail and accuracy
  • Ability to manage competing priorities effectively
  • Confident working both independently and as part of a team
  • Professional and client-focused approach
  • Strong legal research and analytical skills
  • Proficient in Microsoft Office applications
  • Enthusiastic, proactive and keen to develop within a leading disputes practice

What's on Offer

  • 12-month fixed-term contract starting November/December 2026
  • Ideal opportunity for future trainees awaiting Training Contract commencement
  • Exposure to complex, high-profile international disputes
  • Direct access to experienced partners and associates
  • Opportunity to develop core litigation and arbitration skills
  • Significant responsibility from an early stage
  • Collaborative and supportive team culture
  • Exceptional learning and development opportunities
  • Exposure to leading corporate and financial institution clients
  • City of London office location
  • Competitive salary and benefits package
  • Excellent addition to future trainee experience
  • Opportunity to build a strong professional network
  • Work within a prestigious US law firm environment
Contact
Lauren Darlow
Quote job ref
JN-102026-7117369
Phone number
+442072692147

Job summary

Job function
Legal
Subsector
Paralegals / Legal Assistants - Private Practice
Sector
Business Services
Where
City of London
Contract type
Interim
Consultant name
Lauren Darlow
Consultant phone
+442072692147
Job reference
JN-102026-7117369