Job Requirements for a Paralegal
A paralegal's primary functions are to manage the office and assist the attorneys with their caseloads. A good paralegal will be able to work with little supervision, be well educated, energetic, and have the ability to multitask.
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History
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According to Paralegal Career Information, the paralegal position was first recognized by the American Bar Association in 1968. Paralegals were deemed necessary in order to lower the costs of legal services. An attorney's fee is billed at a higher rate than the fee of a paralegal. Paralegals became a way to provide the client with a lower-cost alternative while still maintaining the product quality of an attorney.
Function
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A paralegal holds the office together by maintaining the attorney's court calendar, preparing important legal documents and ensuring attorneys do not miss any deadlines or hearings. The paralegal also functions as the attorney's right hand when dealing with other office support staff and potential client problems.
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Benefits
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Acquiring a paralegal position in a law firm allows an individual to gain a working knowledge of the law and the legal system. Attorneys rely heavily on their paralegals to prepare them for court hearings and client meetings. A paralegal who displays the ability to competently manage the workload given to them will gain the attorney's trust. Trusted paralegals gain additional responsibilities and obtain the ability to grow within their particular firm.
Considerations
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The paralegal profession is designed for individuals who have the ability to multitask, decipher legal jargon and work with little supervision and guidance. Individuals considering a career as a paralegal should familiarize themselves with the legal profession before submitting an application to a law firm.
Misconceptions
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An individual does not need to attend paralegal school to be considered a paralegal. A paralegal certificate may allow an individual to earn a larger salary. However, graduating from paralegal school does not earn you the title of paralegal.
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