Welcome to a glimpse into my life as a personal injury paralegal. In this role, every day is a blend of detailed tasks and client interactions all aimed at seeking justice for those who have been wronged. From early morning planning to the final administrative tasks, my day is filled with a variety of responsibilities that ensure each case progresses smoothly.
Join me as I talk you through a typical day in my life!
8:30am – Arriving at the office
Once at the office, I spend the first 15 minutes planning my day. The variety of responsibilities as a personal injury paralegal is vast, from drafting legal documents to client liaison and evidence management. My first task is updating my to-do list and prioritising cases that need immediate attention by reviewing the list of cases I am working on and prioritising those with pending deadlines, particularly any court deadlines. Time management is essential in this role to ensure no case is delayed.
9:00 am – Reviewing medical evidence
The morning begins with an in-depth review of a client’s medical records. This particular case involves a serious injury resulting from a road traffic accident. The records are essential to understanding the full extent of their injuries, both short- and long-term. Understanding the medical evidence is critical not only to allow us to assess the severity of the injury but also to establish a clear connection between the accident and the long-term consequences for the client. It's crucial that I spot any inconsistencies or gaps in treatment, which could either strengthen our case or need further clarification before proceeding. This task requires focus and precision because these details could ultimately impact the outcome for the client. I compile a detailed review for the solicitor, highlighting key points or entries that will need to be highlighted to the instructed expert in due course.
10:30 am – Client consultations
One of the most important aspects of my role is maintaining direct communication with clients. I have a scheduled call with a client today, a man who was involved in an accident at work. He is still recovering and concerned about the financial impact of his inability to work. Personal injury claims often involve clients who are under significant stress, and it’s my responsibility to ensure they are updated, informed and reassured throughout the process. In addition, part of my role is to offer not just legal support but also empathy. I answered his questions, explained the next steps and gathered any new details related to his recovery that could support the claim. These calls are a reminder that behind every case file is a person navigating a difficult chapter of their life.
11:30 am – Drafting legal documents
The next item on the agenda is preparing a Schedule of Loss for a client who sustained injuries in a public place. This document outlines all of the client’s financial losses, including medical costs, loss of earnings, and any expenses related to the injury. This level of detail is crucial in building a strong case for compensation. I ensure that all figures are accurate and that the document reflects the full scope of the client’s losses, both past and future. It’s essential to capture every detail, as this forms the basis of the compensation claim. I double-check the client’s employment records and medical records to ensure nothing is missed, then I send the draft over to the solicitor for review.
1:00 pm – Lunch break
A quick lunch break is much needed after a busy morning. I grab a sandwich and take a few minutes to catch up with my colleagues. It’s nice to step away from the desk and recharge a bit, especially since the afternoon is set to be just as packed as the morning.
2:00 pm – Preparing a court bundle
The afternoon begins with the preparation of a court bundle for an upcoming hearing. I need to ensure that all necessary documentation for the hearing is compiled and organised. Court bundles must be meticulously accurate, containing witness statements, medical evidence, correspondence, and legal pleadings. Everything must be correctly organised and indexed. This task requires great attention to detail as any missing or incorrect information can significantly impact the outcome of the hearing.
3:30 pm – Chasing medical records
Next on my list is following up on some outstanding medical records for a case that’s in its final stages. Waiting for third-party documents can be one of the most frustrating parts of personal injury work, but it’s vital to ensure we have all the necessary evidence before moving forward with settlement negotiations or litigation. After several calls to hospitals and GP surgeries, I finally secured the records needed for a client’s file. Persistence pays off, and now the case can move ahead smoothly and experts can be instructed.
4:00 pm – Drafting client statements
The next task involves drafting witness statements for a case where a client was injured in a fall on the pavement. I begin by reviewing the whole file to locate all relevant information to be included. Each statement must clearly and accurately reflect the client’s account of the events. I draft the statements, making sure they include all pertinent details such as the correct accident circumstances, interactions, and the aftermath. I then review the drafts for accuracy and clarity before finalising them for review by the solicitor.
5:00 pm – Case management
Before wrapping up for the day, I update our case management system, logging any progress and setting reminders for key upcoming deadlines. This does get updated throughout the day to ensure that I am staying on top of all the notes that have been made throughout the day. Maintaining accurate and up-to-date records is essential to ensuring cases move forward smoothly, especially because multiple cases are running concurrently. I ensure my timesheet contains entries for all chargeable and non-chargeable work I have completed throughout the day. I then review tomorrow’s tasks, flagging any urgent tasks such as following up on outstanding medical records, preparing witness evidence or reviewing a denial of liability.
5:30 pm – End of day reflection
On the way home, I reflect on the day’s work. A role in personal injury law demands a balance of legal expertise, client care, and efficient case management. It’s incredibly rewarding to know that the work I do directly impacts peoples’ lives, helping them move forward after difficult, often traumatic, experiences. Whether it’s drafting a document, preparing for court, or just offering a reassuring voice to a client, every task is a step toward securing justice for someone who needs it. Tomorrow brings a new set of challenges, but that’s what makes this job so fulfilling.
At Stephensons I have an opportunity to contribute to a firm that upholds high standards of legal practice. Within the personal injury team, our dedication to getting the best results for our clients and seeking justice inspires me. Stephensons is an ideal place to further your career and make a meaningful difference.
If you are interested in exploring career opportunities with us or have specific questions about our job vacancies, please don’t hesitate to get in touch. We are always eager to connect with talented individuals who are passionate about law. We’re here to provide the information you need and guide you throughout the next steps in your career.
Find out more about working at Stephensons.
By Millie Wilde
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