WILSON SOLICITORS LLP
JOB DESCRIPTION – IMMIGRATION CASEWORKER
The job of a caseworker in our Immigration Department involves conducting
delegated and routine work on files under the supervision of a Solicitor. It involves a lot of client contact, usually assisted by an interpreter. You will be responsible for generating your own letters and statements in our computer system. You will have to liaise with outside bodies such as the Immigration Service.
This is a worthwhile position with potential for great job satisfaction as you will be helping vulnerable people to secure their legal rights.
1. ASSISTING WITH CASE CONDUCT
Definition:
Every case receives the optimum level of skill and level of professional competence.
Performance Standards:
Performance is satisfactory when:
a) advice and action is kept within the areas of competence identified by the Solicitor
b) the client’s case is attended diligently to achieve the best possible outcome
c) case deadlines, as identified by the Solicitor with conduct, are achieved
2. CASE ADMINISTRATION
Definition:
All cases are efficiently administered.
Performance Standards:
Performance is satisfactory when:
a) a case (or files) is opened as requested, all information accurately and systematically recorded and the database is kept up to date
b) any case plan is implemented, as directed by the Solicitor with conduct
c) the case is progressed within its funding limitations
d) all time expended on a matter is accurately recorded
e) if using the services of others you ensure that they are on the firm’s approved list and that their performance is monitored, if appropriate for you to do so
f) all correspondence and other communication which you are asked to progress is attended to in a timely fashion
g) all time is accurately recorded on the file and on the office computerised time recording software
3. CLIENT CARE
Definition:
All clients are treated to the highest possible professional standards including; adhering to meeting times, level of respect, courtesy and quality of advice.
All clients are informed of the complaints procedure and cost implications of their cases.
Performance Standards:
Performance is satisfactory when:
a) at the outset of the case the legal issues are established, in consultation with the Solicitor.
b) you ensure that the client is kept updated on case progress as appropriate to the tasks you are requested to carry out
c) the client is informed in writing of the firm’s complaints procedure and you ensure that any complaints are processed in accordance with that procedure
d) client confidentiality is maintained at all times
4. SUPERVISION
Definition:
Support and guidance is received from the Solicitor with conduct of the case in order to maximise performance and development as a Caseworker and provide a professional standard of service to the client.
Performance Standards:
Performance is satisfactory when:
a) you carry out work within the limitations of your training, skills and experience
b) you seek guidance from the Solicitor with conduct of the case (as appropriate) if you are unsure
c) you attend supervision sessions as requested and act on the supervision received
5. COST MANAGEMENT
Definition:
Cases are progressed within the costs conditions which apply to them. All time incurred is accurately recorded.
Performance Standards:
Performance is satisfactory when:
a) all internal financial controls and instructions are followed
b) you achieve minimum daily time recording targets as set by the firm.
6. OFFICE MANUAL
Definition:
Compliance with the issues outlined in the office manual where it affects your role.
Performance standards:
Performance is satisfactory when:
a) you are fully conversant with the Office Manual and its contents
b) you keep up-to-date with changes in the Manual
7. EDUCATION AND TRAINING
Definition:
In consultation with the Solicitor with conduct of the case, identification of education and training required to develop professional and administrative skills, knowledge and competence.
Performance Standards
Performance is satisfactory when:
a) you identify your training requirements and request training through your supervisor
b) you report on courses attended to your departmental meeting
c) you comply with the requirements of the office manual under “Training”