123ArticleOnline Logo
Welcome to 123ArticleOnline.com!
ALL >> Legal >> View Article

What Is A Paralegal?

Profile Picture
By Author: Terry Bergin
Total Articles: 3
Comment this article
Facebook ShareTwitter ShareGoogle+ ShareTwitter Share

Many become confused regarding the difference between a paralegal and a qualified lawyer. But these two professions have key differences which make it simple to understand. If you need legal assistance, you must know the difference so you can potentially save money on important legal matters, because hiring an attorney could be costly – and unnecessary.

The Definition of a Paralegal

A paralegal is trained in legal matters, but does not have the full qualifications of an attorney. A paralegal often assists qualified lawyers in performing legal work. A person becomes qualified for a job as a paralegal through education, training or work experience. The person working as a paralegal must have a thorough knowledge of the legal system, as well as legal concepts, organization, analysis and communication.

How a Paralegal Differs from an Attorney

A paralegal differs from a licensed attorney in a number of ways. There are many things they cannot do that an attorney can. Some of the actions only a licensed attorney can perform are the following:

- Giving legal advice

- Appearing in court as ...
... counsel of record

- Having an attorney-client relationship

- Signing pleadings as a representative

However, a paralegal can perform a wide variety of tasks that assist other attorneys or the public. Some of the duties a paralegal can perform are the following:

- Legal research

- Investigations

- Case management

- Legal Writing

- Preparation of exhibits

In many cases, a paralegal can work independently. However, in some regions or states, paralegals are required to work under licensed attorneys who take the final responsibility for any work performed. When you see the term, “legal document preparer” you know that this is the title of an independent legal assistant who cannot call themselves a paralegal because they do not work for a lawyer.

An Education for a Career as a Paralegal

While some paralegals complete formal education, many simply have on-the-job training. Certification can be obtained through National Association of Legal Assistants (NALA) and the National Federation of Paralegal Associations (NFPA). State requirements, or even those of a particular firm or association, sometimes necessitate that a paralegal take part in a Continuing Legal Education program. With this type of program, a paralegal can maintain their credentials.

Paralegals have a unique ability to help others within the legal field, and although their abilities are somewhat limited, they are knowledgeable about the areas that are most important, like filling out legal papers, doing research and other key aspects of legal work. They are a large help to lawyers who otherwise would have little time to spend for their clients in court.

For more information on paralegals in Sacramento click here or visit http://123legalservices.com/

The author has an immense knowledge on paralegals. Know more about paralegals in Sacramento click here

Total Views: 139Word Count: 449See All articles From Author

Add Comment

Legal Articles

1. Safeguard Your Child's Future With Top Legal Representation In Delhi
Author: Nidhi Rajoura

2. How To Choose The Best Fingerprinting Agency In Edmonton
Author: Hardik Shah

3. Best Corporate Lawyers In Delhi: Navigating Business Success With Expert Legal Guidance
Author: Advocate Rahul Bhardwaj

4. Key Considerations In Uk Commercial Transactions: Legal Perspectives For Business Owners
Author: Rainer Hughes

5. How An Ri Divorce Lawyer Can Simplify Your Separation Process
Author: Law Office of John R. Grasso

6. How To Handle A Slip And Fall Case In Minnesota: A Comprehensive Guide Of Hiring A Lawyer
Author: sussmanlaw

7. Uk Spouse Visa Processing Time: Updated
Author: The SmartMove2UK

8. How A Minnesota Dog Bite Accident Attorney Can Help You Seek Justice
Author: sussmanlaw

9. Legal Remedies For Cyber Crime In India – Advocate Deepak
Author: Advocate Deepak

10. Legal Remedies For Cyber Crime: Advocate Deepak's Expertise
Author: Advocate Deepak

11. Mitigating Consequences For First-time Offenders: Defense Lawyers On Keeping Records Clean
Author: glennrroderman

12. The Benefits Of Hiring A Collective Bargaining Attorney In Nyc
Author: indexblogger

13. Interview Waiver For Us Visa Renewal - Everything You Need To Know
Author: Hardik Shah

14. Dui Lawyer Dinwidde Va
Author: Dui Lawyer Dinwidde VA

15. The Evolution Of Content Marketing For Law Firms: Trends And Innovations
Author: jamewilliams

Login To Account
Login Email:
Password:
Forgot Password?
New User?
Sign Up Newsletter
Email Address: