05/09/24

What Does a Paralegal Do?

As the legal industry continues to grow, the demand for skilled paralegals has also surged. A striking statistic from the National Association of Licensed Paralegals reveals that the paralegal sector has grown by 30% in the past decade. But what exactly is a paralegal, and what do they do?

A paralegal is a trained legal professional who assists solicitors, barristers, and other legal practitioners in various legal tasks. This blog aims to provide an in-depth understanding of the roles, responsibilities, and career prospects of a paralegal.

Understanding the Role of a Paralegal

Legally speaking, a paralegal is someone who performs delegated legal work for which a solicitor or barrister is ultimately responsible. Unlike legal secretaries, who focus on clerical work, paralegals are involved in substantive legal tasks such as legal research, drafting documents, and client interactions. Paralegals can work in various legal sectors including corporate law, property law, and family law. They are indispensable in ensuring that law firms run smoothly.

The paralegal profession has a rich history that dates back to the mid-20th century when the demand for legal services exceeded the supply of qualified lawyers. Initially, the role was limited to administrative assistance, but over time, paralegals have taken on more substantive responsibilities. This evolution underscores the growing importance of paralegals in the legal industry, making them vital contributors to legal services today.

Key Responsibilities of a Paralegal

One of the primary responsibilities of a paralegal is to conduct legal research. This involves investigating case laws, statutes, and legal precedents to support legal arguments and case preparations. Legal research is crucial for building strong cases, and paralegals use various tools and databases such as Westlaw and LexisNexis to perform these tasks efficiently. Their role doesn't end there; they summarise documents and ensure that everything is meticulously organised and filed. Proper document management is essential to maintaining the integrity and efficiency of law firms.

Paralegals often serve as the initial point of contact for clients. They assist in conducting client interviews, maintaining confidentiality, and facilitating communication between clients and solicitors. This role is critical in gathering relevant information and providing clients with updates on their cases.

In the lead-up to a court case, paralegals play a vital role in gathering and organising evidence, preparing case summaries, and assisting solicitors and barristers. Their comprehensive involvement in case preparation ensures that legal teams are well-prepared for trials, significantly contributing to the likelihood of a favourable outcome.

A paralegal's role is not confined to legal work alone. They manage schedules, coordinate with court officials, and handle billing and timekeeping. These administrative duties are crucial for the smooth operation of law firms ensuring that deadlines are met, and resources are efficiently utilised.

Skills and Qualifications Required

Most paralegals in the UK opt for paralegal courses or even law degrees to gain the necessary knowledge and expertise. Continuous professional development is also essential, as the legal landscape is constantly evolving. Keeping up-to-date with new laws and regulations is crucial for staying effective in this role.

To be successful, paralegals need a variety of skills:

  • Analytical and research skills: Being able to analyse legal information and conduct thorough research is fundamental.
  • Attention to detail: Precision is crucial in legal work to avoid costly mistakes.
  • Communication and interpersonal skills: Effective communication is vital for client interactions and team collaboration.
  • Organisational and time management skills: Managing multiple tasks efficiently is key.
  • Technical proficiency: Knowledge of legal software and databases is increasingly important.

Relevant certifications such as those from the National Association of Licensed Paralegals (NALP) or the Chartered Institute of Legal Executives (CILEx) can enhance a paralegal's credentials. These professional bodies also offer networking opportunities and career development resources.

Career Opportunities and Advancement

Paralegals often start their careers in entry-level roles, which could include positions like legal assistant or junior paralegal. These roles typically offer a starting salary that provides a solid foundation for future growth.

There are many pathways for career advancement. Paralegals can specialise in areas such as litigation or conveyancing. Some may even choose to further their education and training to become solicitors or barristers. Networking and mentorship play crucial roles in career progression, providing guidance and opportunities for growth.

Job Market and Demand

The paralegal job market is robust, with an increasing demand for skilled professionals. The future outlook is favourable, especially as technology enhances some aspects of the role, making paralegals more indispensable in the legal industry. However, it's also crucial for paralegals to adapt to technological changes to remain competitive.

Challenges and Rewards of Being a Paralegal

Paralegals often face high workloads and tight deadlines, leading to significant emotional and mental stress. Navigating complex legal systems can also be daunting, demanding a high level of expertise and resilience.

Despite the challenges, being a paralegal can be incredibly rewarding. There is a strong sense of accomplishment in assisting with legal cases and making a tangible difference in clients' lives. The role also offers ample opportunities for learning and professional growth.

How to Become a Paralegal

To become a paralegal:

  1. Meet the educational requirements, such as completing a paralegal course or obtaining a law degree.
  2. Gain relevant experience through internships or entry-level jobs.
  3. Obtain certifications to enhance your credentials.
  4. Build a professional network to find job opportunities and gain career advice.

Tips for Aspiring Paralegals

  • Undertake internships and volunteer work to gain practical experience.
  • Stand out in job applications by highlighting relevant skills and experiences.
  • Continue your education and engage in professional development to stay current in the field.

If you're considering a career as a paralegal, now is the time to pursue it. Contact the team at Thornton Legal to discuss your options.

Common Questions About Paralegals

What is the difference between a paralegal and a legal assistant?
A legal assistant primarily handles administrative tasks, while a paralegal engages in substantive legal work such as research, drafting documents, and interacting with clients.

Can paralegals give legal advice?
No, paralegals cannot give legal advice. They assist solicitors and barristers, who are the ones authorised to provide legal counsel.

What is the average salary for a paralegal in the UK?
The average salary for a paralegal in the UK varies, but it typically ranges between £18,000 and £30,000 per year, depending on experience and specialisation.

Thornton Legal is a specialist legal recruiter, connecting law firms with the best legal talent across the North West, West Yorkshire and West Midlands. We focus on long term relationships built on honesty, trust and communication. We regularly recruit for international, national, Legal 500, regional and boutique law firms, and our approach is based on quality over quantity. We consult, support and advise but, ultimately, the choice is always yours.

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