Meet the Team: Gemma Stenson

Gemma Stenson gives an insight into a day in the life of a Senior Family Paralegal.

I’m Gemma, and I’m a paralegal in the family solicitors team at Bell Lamb & Joynson.

The best thing about my role is the diversity of clients and the challenges I face daily. My job gives me the opportunity to help people in what is often the most challenging time of their lives, and it’s incredibly rewarding.

A great thing about Bell Lamb & Joynson is that it’s also full of really hard-working and experienced people, so I love soaking up knowledge and constantly learning from others around me.

For a paralegal, no two days are ever the same - my morning starts with checking emails and highlighting the urgent tasks for the day ahead which can range from client calls to drafting court applications, and dealing with new cases which can be issued at a moment's notice.

We have a lot of different processes that we have to undertake every day, and I make sure these are dealt with swiftly too. Incoming court orders, alcohol and drug test reports and expert assessments have to be processed while ensuring court deadlines and requests are met.

I often meet clients to take statements, instructions, and to complete legal aid applications. Sometimes I also attend pre-proceeding meetings and court with counsel when required. During the pandemic, face-to-face appointments were limited but now we are seeing an increase in meetings at the office which is great.

My day can change pretty quickly due to the urgent nature of family law matters but it always helps to have a routine and plan in place!

My work never truly stops, and I am also currently working towards my CILEX qualification with the Law Academy, attending lectures twice a week and keeping up to date with reading material. I was recently shortlisted for Paralegal of the Year at the Modern Law Awards which was a huge honour for me.

In my spare time, I love unwinding with my friends and family.