What Are the Duties of a Paralegal? Key Tasks

Are you considering a career as a paralegal? Do you wonder what a typical day in this profession looks like?

In this article, we'll explore the essential responsibilities and tasks of a paralegal. You'll discover what are the duties of a paralegal and how they contribute to the legal field. Scott A. Hatch and Lisa Zimmer Hatch, authors of Paralegal Career For Dummies, provide valuable insights into this dynamic profession.

Keep reading to learn about the diverse roles paralegals play and the skills you'll need to succeed in this rewarding career.

Key Responsibilities of Paralegals

If you're considering a career as a paralegal, you might be wondering, "What are the duties of a paralegal?" Let's dive into the essential responsibilities and tasks that make up this dynamic profession, exploring what your day-to-day work would entail.

Legal Research and Analysis

As a paralegal, you'll spend a significant amount of time conducting legal research. This involves using both traditional print materials and online databases to find relevant laws, regulations, and case precedents. You'll need to become proficient in navigating resources like legal encyclopedias, case law indexes, and digital platforms such as Westlaw and Lexis Advance.

Your research skills will be put to the test as you gather information from various sources, including:

• Public records
• Interviews with clients and witnesses
• Medical institutions
• Police departments

You'll need to be adaptable and creative in your approach, often uncovering information from unexpected places like social media networks or court documents.

Document Drafting and Preparation

One of your primary duties will be drafting a wide range of legal documents. This requires excellent writing skills, including a solid grasp of grammar and sentence structure. You'll be responsible for creating:

• Correspondence
• Legal filings
• Motions
• Complaints
• Settlement proposals
• Appellate briefs

It's crucial to communicate clearly and concisely while adhering to specific formatting requirements. Each document must include essential information like the court name, document title, case number, and parties involved.

Case Management

As a paralegal, you'll play a vital role in managing the progression of legal cases. This includes:

• Preparing discovery documents
• Assisting with trial preparation
• Handling post-trial procedures
• Assembling trial notebooks
• Managing evidence
• Communicating with witnesses

During trials, you may be tasked with taking notes, observing juror reactions, and helping with jury selection. Your organizational skills will be crucial in ensuring all legal documents are filed on time and cases progress efficiently.

Client Interaction

While you won't be providing legal advice, you'll often interact with clients. It's essential to maintain a professional demeanor and clearly communicate that you're not a lawyer but work under the supervision of a licensed attorney. You'll need to be skilled at conducting interviews and gathering information from clients while maintaining strict confidentiality.

Office Administration

Paralegals often take on administrative duties to keep law offices running smoothly. This may include:

• Managing calendars and deadlines
• Prioritizing tasks
• Overseeing billing procedures
• Utilizing case management software

You'll need to be proficient in using tools like QuickBooks for accurate time tracking and billing. Many law offices also use specialized software like Clio, MyCase, or PracticePanther to streamline various administrative functions.

Specialized Areas of Law

As a paralegal, you may have the opportunity to specialize in various areas of law. Each specialization comes with its own unique set of responsibilities:

Family Law

In family law, you might handle tasks related to:

• Divorce proceedings
• Child custody arrangements
• Spousal support
• Adoption processes

Estate Planning

Estate planning paralegals often assist with:

• Preparing wills and trusts
• Aiding in the probate process
• Ensuring proper distribution of estate assets

Business Law

If you specialize in business law, your duties may include:

• Creating documents for new businesses
• Ensuring compliance with corporate regulations
• Assisting with mergers and acquisitions

Bankruptcy Law

Bankruptcy paralegals often help with:

• Preparing documents for bankruptcy filings
• Handling correspondence related to bankruptcy cases

Intellectual Property Law

In this field, you might be involved in:

• Conducting trademark research
• Assisting with copyright or patent litigation

Personal Injury and Medical Malpractice

Paralegals in these areas often focus on:

• Organizing documents and evidence
• Preparing for litigation
• Supporting attorneys representing clients seeking compensation for injuries

Ethical Considerations

As a paralegal, you'll need to adhere to strict ethical standards. This includes:

• Maintaining client confidentiality
• Avoiding conflicts of interest
• Reporting any misconduct you observe
• Refraining from unauthorized practice of law

You'll need to be vigilant about recognizing potential ethical dilemmas and immediately alerting your supervising attorney if any arise.

By understanding these key responsibilities and specialized areas, you'll be well-prepared to embark on a rewarding career as a paralegal. Remember, the legal field is dynamic, so staying adaptable and committed to ongoing learning will be crucial to your success.