Pros
I have since left BW Legal. I note previous review stated I left a "scathing review". I've now toned-down this review by resubmitting it and I do stand by what is written. + This is a good way to get your foot in a Law firm in a simple area of Law without qualifications - it is debt recovery. + This is also a fantastic position for those that prefer a Call Centre style Law Firm. + In my opinion, the paralegal role is a Data Entry job (no matter how much they try sell you the job). There was little legal experience as it was running jobs on a system constantly. If you enjoy Repetitive work and every day is no different from the day before, then this is an ideal position for you. + You will always be Safe at BW Legal! If you're lost, then do not worry they will find you. There are CCTV everywhere including the toilet entrance as mentioned in another review. You will gain a similar Big Brother experience and not many companies will give you that privilege. + The starting Paralegal salary is slightly above average. Most reputable Law firms may not even match the salary for their Paralegal roles so you may be at BW Legal for the foreseeable future if money is an important factor. + The work at BW Legal is easy as it is basically administrative/data entry so the Paralegal pay is good for the work you do. + There is the benefit of on-site Free Parking (but limited) - you may be asked to park off-site in another Car Park which is about 15 minutes walk away. + There is a Canteen (as said in a previous review, you cannot go there during working hours as this is monitored by CCTV). The food is also limited. + They provide play areas with playstation and Xbox. It felt like I was back in school as it is full of young employees that may have just left school. It is also great for gamers. + On another plus side, BW Legal seems to be always recruiting as they need to replace a lot of employees that leave. This is ideal for those that can start immediately so BW Legal can save you from unemployment. + They employ people from all backgrounds as they offer catering jobs, post room jobs, data entry (admin jobs with fancy names) - you can get a job if you want to work in a Law Firm.
Cons
× It feels like a Call Centre. Don't let the name fool you. × No Training Contracts. Your Law degree and LPC may as well be put it in the shredder on your first day at BW Legal. × There were not many qualified lawyers (Solicitors) in the firm and a couple more have left since. No role model. × Minimal Legal work as the Paralegal position felt more of an admin role. × Unfortunately it feels like you're monitored and watched every move you make (including smoking breaks, getting a drink, going to the toilet). × No company benefits such as annual pay rise and employee loyalty schemes. Bonuses seem to be offered to Collections department only. × You will notice there is a Very High Turnover of staff when you start; the first person you meet may not even be at the company the next following day. × It is about 20 minutes walk from Train Station so it is inconvenient to go out of the building for a half an hour Lunch Break. × Most people would tell you that it feels like you're at school - no mobile phones are allowed, there is a system to monitor punctuality and lateness. No coats behind chairs and your bags need to be locked away in the drawers. × You cannot bring your own mug to make your own cups of tea. You must only get your teas and coffee from the vending machines provided. Paper cups seem to be the future at this company because I think BW Legal is going for the environmental UNfriendly award. × The environment is full of negative energy. It did not feel like a relaxing workplace and I felt unreachable targets were set. Not only that, the case management system and the technology is outdated.