The classic “CV-forwarding” method of hiring has become insufficient, and the legal firms need someone who can precisely identify the strengths and weaknesses of the support teams, those being the fee-earners and the clients, along with the firm’s operational feeling.
The Source & Screen talent acquisition model is different. Compared to typical recruitment methods that primarily focus on candidate sourcing, the Source & Screen system delivers a more thorough, organized approach to ensure only the most skilled and suitable candidates are included on your final list.
Owen Reed is now recognized across the UK for employing this sophisticated and efficient technique to place those who excel in legal support skills in top law firms. Here is the process and a reason why it is a new standard for legal recruitment in the UK.
The Source & Screen model is a two-stage, high-precision recruitment process designed to ensure that every shortlisted candidate is not only skilled but also a strong cultural fit. It goes beyond matching CVs to job descriptions — it identifies professionals who will thrive in the specific legal environment they’re entering. This model includes:
Instead of presenting a stack of applicants, the Source & Screen model delivers a curated shortlist of candidates ready to add value from day one.
Sourcing is more than searching job boards. Owen Reed utilises a combination of strategies to identify professionals with the exact skills needed in high-pressure legal environments.
Key components of the sourcing stage include:
The long-lasting legal recruitment experience of OR gives the possibility to have access to the pre-screened candidates who have gone through the following backgrounds:
The top-notch candidates are not necessarily the ones who apply; they might already be enjoying their jobs at other firms. OR constantly approaches talent of the right experience and style, as is the case with passive candidates.
All legal support positions have unique skill requirements. OR points out candidates with matching experience, such as litigation, corporate, employment, real estate, or support for private clients.
The candidates’ technical skills, sector experience, and software knowledge will be matched with the client’s requirements before screening.
Screening ensures that only the most capable and compatible candidates move forward. This process is where the Source & Screen model truly excels.
Here’s what happens during screening:
The candidates are evaluated based on their:
In legal support positions, certain character traits are needed to cope with fast and detail-oriented environments. The interviews measure:
This ensures that the chosen ones align with the firm’s culture rather than merely filling the vacancy.
It is very important for future success that a specific candidate’s manner of operation is understood, whether alone or with others, under pressure, or in a multi-partner environment.
Professional references bolster the candidate’s credibility, confirm his/her performance, and state his/her virtues even before the client meets him/her.
Rather than sending the law firm non-specific CVs, OR presents a candidate shortlist with evaluation notes, strengths, and insights into suitability, thus saving the law firms the time and effort of filtering out.
The Source & Screen model is more than a recruitment method — it’s a quality assurance system. Designed specifically for the fast-paced legal industry, it ensures law firms hire skilled, reliable professionals who are aligned with their culture.
If you’re ready to hire with confidence, partner with Owen Reed today. Get in touch to secure thoroughly screened, high-performing legal support talent that fits your firm perfectly.
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