What Is a Paralegal?

 What is a Paralegal and
What Does a Paralegal Do?

If you're new to the paralegal field, you're probably wondering what is a paralegal and what does a paralegal do, exactly?

What Is a Paralegal?

Paralegals are professionals that are trained to do much of the same work that lawyers do.  In fact, paralegal employment is projected to grow faster than average, as paralegals take on more of the work that lawyers used to do as firms try to reduce costs. 

What Does a Paralegal Do?

So what does a paralegal do all day?  Your duties as a paralegal depend a lot on the type of law you're involved in (your legal specialty) as well as how much experience you have.  However, to get a general sense of the paralegal role, here are just a few of the things you may do as a legal assistant:

• Research and investigate case facts 
• Identify relevant laws and judicial decisions
• Summarize research for attorneys
• Interview clients
• Stay up-to-date on the latest legal news and developments
• Draft legal documents such as briefs, pleadings, appeals, wills, contracts, or real estate closing statements
• Coordinate law office activities
• Ensure law library is kept up-to-date
• Inventory personal property for estate planning

Also key to answering "What does a paralegal do?" is understanding the different areas of law. There are LOTS of exciting specialities - the following are just a few:

Is there anything a paralegal can't do?

Just as important as answering "What is a paralegal?", is understanding what a paralegal is NOT.

There are a few, specific things that paralegals are not allowed to do -- these tasks are the sole responsibility of lawyers.

Paralegals and legal assistants cannot:

• Set legal fees
• Give legal advice
• Present cases in court

Also important to know is that, ultimately, lawyers are accountable for the work done by paralegals and legal assistants.

Pros and Cons of the Job

As you can see, paralegal jobs are exciting. In any given week, if you work in a law firm you are likely to be involved in several cases at once - days will probably fly by!

But it's important to know the 'real deal' when it comes to paralegal jobs. While the work can be rewarding, lawyers can also be some of the most demanding bosses out there. Many paralegals report working for attorneys that are abrasive, aggressive, and never take the time to say thanks for a job well done.

However, on balance a paralegal career can be terrific, especially if you have the right qualities and skills.  Think it might be a good fit for you?  Great!  Then check out the links below to keep learning. 

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