Career description:
Paralegals are trained to assist attorneys in the delivery of legal services. They might work for law firms, corporations, the government, or in other practice environments, but always under the supervision of a lawyer. Paralegals can’t give legal advice. They can’t represent clients in court, establish legal fees, or sign documents that will be filed with the court.
What it’s like:
Common duties:
- Arranging mediation or expert psychological evaluations in family law divorce and custody matters
- Contributing to trial preparation in litigation practices
- Providing behind-the-scenes support in the courtroom at hearings and trials, or in arbitration, mediation, administrative proceedings, and closings
- Drafting legal documents and pleadings, including deposition notices, subpoenas, motions, certifications, contracts, briefs, and complaints
- Investigating the facts of a case by interviewing clients and witnesses and performing legal research into case law and precedents
- Handling discovery—the exchange of certain information between opposing parties to a lawsuit
- Organizing and managing files, documents, and exhibits
- Filing documents with federal and state courts
Similar occupations:
Certified Paralegal, Corporate Law Assistant, Law Associate, Legal Analyst, Legal Assistant, Litigation Paralegal, Paralegal, Paralegal Assistant, Paralegal Specialist, Real Estate Paralegal
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