Níamh Harkin talks about what life is like as a Paralegal at Caldwell & Robinson.

I’m a Paralegal here at Caldwell & Robinson, based in our Family Department in our Derry Office, working under Senior Partner, Karen O’Leary.

My main role is to help the Family solicitors day-to-day. Some of my jobs include compiling court bundles for hearings, liaising with clients and other professionals, and lending a hand in our very busy office!

For me, working in the Family Department doesn’t just require legal skills — it requires compassion, understanding and empathy, as a lot of the clients that come to us are facing challenging situations, and its our firm’s job to help them navigate their complex legal matters. Playing a part in helping our clients to reach a resolution is incredibly fulfilling.

At the minute, I am studying Law at the Ulster University while working here at Caldwell & Robinson. The firm have really supported me so far throughout my studies, and the experience that I’m gaining here is invaluable. My work here compliments my studies and has confirmed to me that I am definitely in the right profession.

I would stay to anyone studying law or who has recently graduated, that the experience of being a Paralegal gives you a great insight into the legal profession and I feel like my experience as a Paralegal is only benefiting me.

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