What does a paralegal do?

1 Paralegal duties

Paralegals are responsible for a variety of tasks depending on the type, size, and specialty of the law firm or organization they work for. These can include researching legal issues, drafting pleadings and motions, reviewing documents and evidence, filing and managing court documents, preparing exhibits and summaries for trials and hearings, interviewing clients and witnesses, scheduling appointments, meetings, and deadlines, as well as maintaining confidentiality and ethical standards.

2 Paralegal skills

To be a successful paralegal, you need to have a combination of hard and soft skills. Essential hard skills include legal knowledge and terminology, research and writing skills, computer and software skills, organizational and time management skills, and attention to detail and accuracy. Important soft skills include communication and interpersonal skills, critical thinking and problem-solving skills, teamwork and collaboration skills, initiative and adaptability, as well as professionalism and ethics.

3 Paralegal qualifications

The minimum qualification to become a paralegal is a high school diploma or equivalent. However, most employers prefer candidates who have completed a postsecondary paralegal program, such as an associate degree or a certificate. These programs typically cover topics such as legal research, civil procedure, contracts, torts, family law, and ethics. Some programs also offer internships or externships that provide hands-on experience in a legal setting.

In addition, some paralegals choose to obtain voluntary certification from professional organizations, such as the National Association of Legal Assistants (NALA), the National Federation of Paralegal Associations (NFPA), or the American Alliance of Paralegals (AAP). These certifications require passing an exam and meeting certain educational and work experience criteria. They also demonstrate a paralegal's competence and commitment to the profession.

4 Paralegal benefits

Being a paralegal offers many advantages, such as high demand and job security. The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) forecasts that the employment of paralegals will grow by 10 percent from 2019 to 2029, which is much faster than the average for all occupations. This is due to the increasing need for legal services and the cost-effectiveness of hiring paralegals instead of lawyers. Additionally, paralegals can work in different areas of law and for various types of employers, providing a diverse and stimulating work environment with learning and growth opportunities. Moreover, paralegals can make a positive difference in the lives of their clients and society by helping them resolve their legal issues and protect their rights. They can also contribute to the efficiency and quality of the legal system by supporting the work of lawyers and judges, giving them a sense of satisfaction and impact.

6 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?