Sophie Brett
Gold Coast,QLD
Summary
Detail-oriented and highly organized professional with extensive experience as a paralegal in both court settings and private law firms. Proven ability to manage complex case files, coordinate with multiple stakeholders, and deliver high-quality administrative and research support under pressure. Skilled in critical thinking, communication, and problem-solving, with a strong track record of maintaining confidentiality and ensuring compliance with regulatory standards. Now seeking to transition into a new role outside the legal sector, leveraging transferable skills in project coordination, document management, client relations, and operational support to contribute value in a dynamic and fast-paced environment.
Overview
8
8
years of professional experience
Work History
Paralegal
Beck Law
Gold Coast, QLD
09.2024 - Current
- Conducted legal research to support case preparation and client needs.
- Drafted legal documents including affidavits and letters to clients.
- Organized case files and maintained accurate records for lawyer review.
- Communicated with clients to gather information and provide case updates.
- Assisted in preparing for trials by managing exhibits and preparing physical briefs.
- Provided administrative support such as answering phones or scheduling appointments.
- Maintained client files according to established protocols.
- Maintained calendars for upcoming court dates or deadlines related to cases.
- Drafted correspondence to clients and other lawyers.
- Proofread documents prior to filing them with courts or submitting them to counsel.
- Filed paperwork with court clerk to meet strict deadlines.
Court Registry Officer
Ministry of Justice
Tauranga
11.2022 - 07.2024
- Court taking to help facilitate the smooth operation of the court, which included introducing the Judges in both English and Te Reo Maori. Working closely alongside the Judges in both the court room and chambers and general administration of the courts.
- Exercised the powers of a Deputy Registrar to consider and grant procedural applications by counsel, such as extensions of time for filing court documents.
- Customer service to help participants understand the court processes and filing of new applications commonly under the Care of Children Act 2004, Family Violence Act 2018, Protection of Personal and Property Rights Act 1988.
- Processing applications such as mental health warrants, applications for compulsory treatment orders, adoption record applications, property, estates, protection orders and parenting orders.
- Working alongside colleagues to answer queries via face-to-face, email and phone conversations.
- Case Management of an average of 70 files at a time, ensuring all files are managed to a high standard, up to date and processed through the courts efficiently. This part of the role involved a large component of data entry.
- Demonstrated leadership by helping to train others.
Checkout Operator
Woolworths
Tauranga, New Zealand
08.2017 - 09.2022
- Operated checkout registers efficiently.
- Assisted customers with product inquiries and provided excellent service.
- Maintained cleanliness and organization of checkout areas for a positive experience.
- Trained new staff on checkout processes and customer service standards.
- Addressed customer complaints promptly to enhance satisfaction levels.
- Greeted customers in a friendly and courteous manner.
- Processed cash, credit, debit, and check payments accurately and efficiently.
- Learned roles of other departments to provide coverage and keep store operational.
- Balanced tills daily to ensure accuracy of transactions.
Education
Bachelor of Arts - Criminology
Victoria University
Wellington New Zealand 05-2023
Skills
- Time management
- Organisation skills
- Solution focused
- Detail orientated and observant
- Multitasking skills
- Ability to work in a team environment
- Willing to learn
- Resilience in difficult situations with sensitive content
- Document Review
- Legal Terminology
- Document Preparation
- Professional correspondence
- Problem-solving abilities
- Case management
- Customer relationship management
- Data entry
- Attention to detail
- Effective communication
References
References available upon request.
Timeline
Paralegal
Beck Law
09.2024 - Current
Court Registry Officer
Ministry of Justice
11.2022 - 07.2024
Checkout Operator
Woolworths
08.2017 - 09.2022
Bachelor of Arts - Criminology
Victoria University