A Day in the Life of a Paralegal
Shauna Marriott, a paralegal in our London Serious Crime team assists individuals at all stages of their defence proceedings, in relation to a variety of criminal offences. She is currently studying for the SQE (Solicitor Qualifying Exams), with the aim to qualify as a solicitor in 2025.
- Tell us about your journey into law and what drew you to specialise in Serious Criminal defence
I first studied law at A-Level, which comprised of many elements of Criminal law. Even though I had not studied Law previously, I found I was able to naturally grapple the key concepts thoroughly enjoyed it. I then went on to study Law with Criminology at University.
My early introduction into law was incredibly positive and along with my earlier studies in criminology and psychology, it naturally pathed the way for my focus to turn to representing individuals and with this, in defence proceedings.
- How has assisting senior colleagues on complex cases like murder or fraud prepared you for qualifying as a solicitor?
Working on complex and high-profile cases such as white-collar offences and murders has allowed me to work with highly experienced Partners, Solicitors and Barristers, who are regarded as some of the best in the industry. The experience has been invaluable in providing me with the groundwork to represent individuals from different backgrounds, across a spectrum of cases and at all stages of their proceedings.
The teams I work with always maintain the highest levels of client care, which is at the forefront of what we do and the service we aim to deliver. This alone, added to the vast knowledge and dedication demonstrated by peers has been instrumental in allowing me to achieve favourable outcomes for our clients.
I am incredibly grateful to all colleagues who have given me their support and guidance in the early stages of my career, any success I have achieved or achieve in the future is very much reflected by not only my own hard work and commitment, but also that of those around me.
- How do you balance studying for the SQE with the demands of your role, especially with heavy cases loads?
Paralegals often have wide-ranging ‘typical days’, which means it can be difficult to get into a structured routine and balance studying. In my role there are very little opportunities to work from home, therefore this does result in earlier mornings to ensure I stay on track. Criminal practice requires adaptability therefore it is important to not become restricted with a set routine and use the time available as best I can.
- What does a ‘typical’ day in the life look like, while studying for your SQE exams and working full-time Paralegal role?
7:30 – 8:00 I aim to be at my desk between 7:30 and 8:00am. This allows me at least an hour to revise, which usually involves drafting an answer to the huge number of mock exams which I am working my way through. I try to spend my commute revising or actioning emails on my phone, which means by the time I begin my working day, I have at least 90 minutes of studying under my belt and can turn my focus to work.
9:00 – After setting aside my SQE study materials, I plan out my working day. If I am attending Court, I spend this time preparing notes, reading through case summaries, and ensuring that everything is in place for the proceedings to run smoothly.
9:30 – 13:00 If I’m in the office all day, I typically spend the morning drafting documents and reviewing case materials.
13:00– 16:00 In the afternoon, I am often asked to join client calls or team conferences with Partners or Senior Associates, where I take detailed notes. After these meetings, there are usually tasks that need to be actioned, which I aim to address straight away. To accommodate these tasks and any unforeseen duties that may arise throughout the day, I make sure to build in some ‘free time’ into my schedule to stay adaptable and efficient.
16:00-17:30 I spend the last section of my day, checking the diary for the upcoming day and drafting and sending emails, which could include my earlier drafted documents, briefs to counsel or letters to clients.
17:30 Once my working day is complete, I have a break and try to switch off from work. Later in the evening I aim to spend another 2-3 hours studying.
As cliché as it sounds, each day is incredibly varied. Some days are spent in court, attending prison visits, or conducting client interviews across the country. This variety in routine is something all criminal practitioners are accustomed to and thrive on
