Paralegal Job Description
What Does a Paralegal Do?
A paralegal is a professional who assists lawyers with legal research, drafting of legal documents, and other administrative tasks. Paralegals are responsible for researching legal precedents, preparing legal documents, conducting interviews, and researching laws, as well as helping lawyers prepare for trials.
Paralegal Job Description Example
KCLegalEagles, a premier law firm located in Kansas City, is seeking a professional and detail-oriented paralegal to join the firm's practice. The successful candidate will possess a can-do attitude, drive, and the ability to work with a team in a fast-paced environment.
Duties and Responsibilities:
- Research and analyze relevant laws, regulations, and legal articles
- Prepare legal documents, such as pleadings, motions, and contracts
- Draft correspondences and maintain case files
- Assist attorneys in preparing for trial or court proceedings
- Perform administrative tasks as required, such as filing and scanning documents
- Assist clients in understanding legal processes, procedures, and regulations
Work Hours and Benefits:
This is a full-time position with standard office hours. Salary is commensurate with experience, with comprehensive benefits, including PTO and healthcare benefits.
Qualifications:
- A bachelor’s degree in paralegal studies or a related field
- Strong verbal and written communication skills
- Knowledge of legal terminology and principles
- Microsoft Office Suite proficiency
- Professional and ethical conduct
- Ability to work independently and as part of a team
Training and Education:
The successful candidate will have completed paralegal education from an accredited paralegal program. Preference will be given to those with prior legal experience.
If you possess the qualifications and experience required, and you thrive in a fast-paced and collaborative work environment, please apply today. We look forward to meeting you!
What to Include on a Paralegal Resume or Job Posting
Common paralegal responsibilities
- Drafting legal documents such as pleadings, motions, and briefs.
- Conducting legal research and summarizing findings.
- Assisting attorneys in preparing for trials, hearings, and closings.
- Interviewing clients and witnesses.
- Maintaining and organizing legal documents and files.
- Assisting in the preparation of legal arguments and opinions.
- Assisting in the preparation of legal documents for filing with the court.
- Assisting in the preparation of discovery requests and responses.
- Assisting in the preparation of legal documents for settlement negotiations.
- Assisting in the preparation of legal documents for arbitration and mediation.
Qualities & traits
- Excellent Communication Skills: Paralegals must be able to communicate effectively with clients, attorneys, and other legal professionals. This includes being able to listen carefully, ask questions, and explain complex legal concepts in clear and concise language.
- Attention to Detail: Paralegals must be detail-oriented, as they are responsible for ensuring accuracy in legal documents and other work.
- Organizational Skills: Paralegals must be able to organize and prioritize tasks in order to meet deadlines.
- Research Skills: Paralegals must be able to research legal topics and laws in order to provide accurate information to attorneys and clients.
- Problem-Solving Skills: Paralegals must be able to identify problems and develop solutions.
- Interpersonal Skills: Paralegals must be able to work well with attorneys and other legal professionals, as well as clients.
- Computer Skills: Paralegals must be proficient in using computers and software programs related to the legal field.
What a typical day looks like for a paralegal
A paralegal helps attorneys with legal research and document preparation, such as researching and summarizing legal opinions, drafting pleadings, reviewing and organizing documents, preparing contracts, assisting with discovery and motions, organizing exhibits, and verifying and maintaining citations. On a daily basis, a paralegal is responsible for researching cases and laws, signing affidavits and other forms, assisting with client interviews, creating reports, conducting investigations and attending court proceedings. In addition, they also manage filing systems, coordinate meetings between attorneys and clients, and maintain confidential client information.
Compatible jobs and work history
A paralegal is a legal assistant who provides support to lawyers by completing tasks such as legal research, document preparation, and client communication. While a paralegal does need some education and experience in the field, it is possible to gain the skills and knowledge necessary for the role through other industries and roles. People who have worked in other administrative roles and customer service-oriented roles may already have the organizational and communication skills necessary to succeed as a paralegal.
The following is a list of 5-10 job titles that can provide the transferable skills and knowledge necessary for paralegal work:
- Administrative Assistant
- Legal Clerk
- Customer Service Representative
- Executive Assistant
- Office Manager
- Research Assistant
- Data Entry Clerk
- Project Coordinator
- Billing Clerk
- Receptionist
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