The paralegal job description is one that is not easily nailed down to a one page description–one size fits all–because paralegal positions will vary depending on where a paralegal works and what area of law they practice in. But there are some basic duties that most paralegals should be prepared to perform. Below is a description of the paralegal job and the skills that will be necessary for a paralegal to perform best in his position.
Duties for private sector paralegals range from more difficult tasks such as legal research to task more administrative in nature. These administrative functions include answering phones, coordinating events for firm employees, scheduling and arranging travel, writing correspondence, and tracking and organizing files.
However, the paralegal job description does not include tasks that require a legal license, such as giving client’s legal advice or setting legal fees. Paralegals are involved in all areas in which their employer practices law, including interviewing clients.
In the public sector, the paralegal job description is as broad as the number of state agencies that exist in each state. Litigation paralegals help manage files, complete research, and analyze evidence for hearings. These paralegals who work for the government may also research their agency’s policies and regulations.
In community service areas, paralegals will have more direct contact with clients. Paralegals in this area will interview clients, conduct research, and prepare and file documents for the agencies underprivileged clients.
Primary Paralegal Job Duties
- perform legal and factual research
- perform research of records
- identify relevant judicial decisions, statutes, legal articles, codes and other pertinent material
- organize and analyze information
- cross-check and validate information
- prepare written reports
- draft legal documents including briefs, appeals, wills, contracts and legal agreements
- help prepare legal arguments, applications, declarations and motions
- prepare correspondence
- check legal forms and documents for accuracy
- maintain reference files
- organize and track case files
- review and monitor new and updated regulations
- maintain the firm’s law library
- coordinate law office activities such as subpoena delivery
- find and communicate with witnesses
- interview and interact with clients
- assist attorneys in depositions
- assist the lawyer in the courtroom
Desired Skills for Paralegals
- research skills
- analytical skills
- critical thinking skills
- organizational skills
- strong communication skills
- stress tolerance
- detail oriented
- computer skills
Paralegal Job Description–A Typical Work Day
A typical work schedule for many paralegals would be the same as in any office environment–forty hours per week…nine to five. However, many paralegals work overtime, especially when there is a big trial coming up on a brief due. Paralegals are not chained to a desk; they get to go to court and depositions. They also get to visit with clients and witnesses, many times outside of the office. (Remember Erin Brockovich?) As indicated above, the actual work performed each day will depend on what type of office the paralegal works in.
The great thing about how broad the paralegal job description is that it is allows paralegals a variety of duties so that they can find a position that allows them to never get bored with their work.