Definition of a Paralegal

Definition of a Paralegal

As Defined By The American Bar Association

The American Association for Paralegal Education defines the paralegal as follows:

Paralegals perform substantive and procedural legal work as authorized by law, which work, in the absence of the paralegal, would be performed by an attorney. Paralegals have knowledge of the law gained through education, or education and work experience, which qualifies them to perform legal work. Paralegals adhere to recognized ethical standards and rules of professional responsibility.

Although generalists - those who work in all areas of law - meet the needs of many smaller law firms, some firms and organizations have found that paralegals that specialize are necessary to their practice.

Paralegals are employed in the private, public, and non-profit sectors, such as law firms, banks, title companies, corporations, insurance companies, real estate firms, government agencies, courts, and legal aid societies.

PARALEGALS can do the following:

• Organize, file and maintain case materials.
• Conduct interviews with clients to gather background information.
• Conduct case and statute research at the law library.
• Write legal memoranda for attorneys and corporate executives.
• Draft interrogatories and pleadings.
• Interview and prepare witnesses for depositions, cross-examination and other court appearances.
• Conduct business with the police, other attorneys, government officials, various agencies, and all levels of courts.
• Organize, direct and manage word processing and computer systems, and utilize computer systems such as Lexis and Westlaw for legal research.
• Prepare drafts of trial motions, complaints, wills, leases, corporation formations, partnership agreements, contracts, and appellate briefs.
• Provide title and public record searches, keep meeting minutes, work closely with attorneys during trial by keeping material organized and making notes during examination and cross examination of witnesses.
• Represent clients in certain administration proceedings such as Social Security, unemployment compensation hearings, and district justice or justice of the peace hearings.
• Review, organize and digest depositions and trial transcripts.
• Prepare and place advertising for staff personnel; interview, screen and recommend applicants for entry positions.
• Assist attorneys and the public in locating legal reference materials.