How important is paralegal experience when applying for TCs?

Ellisha

Standard Member
Nov 21, 2020
9
0
Hi everyone. So I’m a recent law graduate hoping to secure a training contract at some point in the future but in the meantime I’d like to get some work experience.

I recently managed to secure two job offers - one as a paralegal in the research and development department at a global pharmaceutical company, and one as a junior finance analyst at a consulting firm. To be honest I never thought I’d find myself in this position as when I was applying I was fully expected to be rejected by both!

I know that the paralegal option may seem like the obvious choice, but the thing that’s making me hesitate is that the subject matter of the finance role ties in more with the sector I’d hope to specialise in as a solicitor, ie., capital markets, securities, etc.

So basically I’m trying to figure out what i should focus on more. the relevant sector, ie finance, even though that wouldn’t be a legal role at all, or the paralegal role which wouldn’t necessarily tie in with the sector I’m interested in but would give me explicitly legal experience, working closely with contracts, NDAs etc?

Apologies if this is a stupid question, but I just know what a competitive market it is out there and so I really want to make the choice now that would boost my chances of securing a tc later down the line. I’d say both jobs are similar in terms of salaries and atmosphere. Would really be so grateful for any input!
 

About Us

The Corporate Law Academy (TCLA) was founded in 2018 because we wanted to improve the legal journey. We wanted more transparency and better training. We wanted to form a community of aspiring lawyers who care about becoming the best version of themselves.

Newsletter

Discover the most relevant business news, access our law firm analysis, and receive our best advice for aspiring lawyers.