What does a typical workday for a paralegal look like? This is an interesting question – one that those considering law may be asking themselves, especially for those considering becoming a paralegal.
While the day-to-day functions of a paralegal can differ from firm to firm and person to person, every paralegal will regularly tend to some general tasks and obligations.
In this article, we’ll go over the day in the life of a paralegal and the daily responsibilities, discuss the potential pros and cons of choosing to become a paralegal and answer common questions.
What Is a Paralegal?
Paralegals play an important part in any law office and the legal system as a whole. As a result, for those interested in becoming a paralegal, understanding the role is crucial.
The American Bar Association (ABA) defines a paralegal as: “A person qualified by education, training, or work experience who is employed or retained by a lawyer, law office, corporation, governmental agency, or other entity and who performs specifically delegated substantive legal work for which a lawyer is responsible.”
In other words, a paralegal acts as a legal assistant to their attorney partners. Paralegals, unlike lawyers, do not practice law, meaning they cannot give legal advice or act as advocates for clients.
What Are the Most Important Skills for a Paralegal?
To excel as a paralegal, you’ll need:
- Strong analytical skills.
- Attention to detail.
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
- Proficiency in legal research.
- Organizational abilities.
- Ethical judgment.
- Ability to work under pressure.
Developing these skills is essential for an entry-level paralegal to succeed in the role.
What Type of Paralegal Is Most in Demand?
Paralegals with expertise in areas like litigation, corporate law, real estate, intellectual property, and compliance are often in high demand. Specializing in a particular field can enhance job prospects and earning potential.
Understanding which areas are most sought after can help those becoming a paralegal to focus their education and training.
Daily Responsibilities of a Paralegal
Understanding the typical workday for a paralegal can help prospective candidates know what to expect.
Again, the daily responsibilities of paralegals can vary from firm to firm, depending on the types of cases they handle and the expectations of their firm. However, here are a few general responsibilities most paralegals will handle regularly:
- Perform legal research
- Fact-check
- Manage cases
- Ensure deadlines are met for client cases
- Draft correspondence
- Maintain communication with clients
- Draft correspondence
- Maintain communication with clients
- Analyze and research data
- File court documents
As we mentioned, a paralegal’s work is vital to the successful operation of a firm.
Which Is the Largest Employer of Paralegals?
Law firms are the largest employers of paralegals. However, many paralegals also work in corporate legal departments, government agencies, and non-profit organizations. For those becoming a paralegal, exploring different employment settings can be beneficial.
Do Any Paralegals Get Involved in Court Cases?
While paralegals do not represent clients in court, they often play a significant role in preparing for court cases. This can include organizing documents, coordinating witnesses, and assisting attorneys with trial preparation. Some paralegals may also attend court proceedings to provide on-the-spot assistance to the attorney.
How Many Hours Do Paralegals Work Per Week?
Paralegals typically work full-time, and the hours can vary depending on the workload and firm. A standard workweek is around 40 hours, but additional hours may be required to meet deadlines during busy periods or major cases.
Are Most Paralegals Hourly or Salary?
Most paralegals are salaried employees, especially those working full-time in law firms. However, some positions may offer hourly wages, mainly part-time or contract work. This can vary, especially for entry-level paralegals starting their careers.
How Much Do Paralegals Make?
Paralegal salaries can vary based on experience, education, and location.
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual wage for paralegals was approximately $56,230 in 2022.
Entry-level paralegals may earn less, while those with more experience or specialized skills can earn more.
What Is the Highest Paid Type of Paralegal?
Paralegals specializing in intellectual property, corporate law, and complex litigation tend to be among the highest paid. In addition, paralegals working in major metropolitan areas or large firms may earn higher salaries.
How to Become a Paralegal
Does a day in the life of a paralegal intrigue you? To become a paralegal, you’ll have to complete some education. Thankfully, law school, post-graduate degrees, and passing the bar are not on the list of qualifications firms check for.
Instead, obtaining a four or two-year paralegal studies degree from a university or community college should suffice. If you already have a degree in another field of study, you can obtain a post-graduate certificate to avoid a second college degree.
Once you’ve reached your desired level of education, you can begin applying for entry-level paralegal positions at firms that interest you and feel like a good fit!
Should I Become a Paralegal?
To decide whether or not you’d like to be a paralegal, you’ll need to do some research (get used to this because you’ll be doing plenty if you decide to enter the paralegal world!).
Look into programs at local universities or community colleges, make a point of talking to multiple people who work in the industry, and hear out a variety of perspectives before you make your decision.
You’ll need to be a detail-oriented person to be a good paralegal. If running over evidence with a fine-tooth comb and sifting through previous cases for relevant precedents doesn’t sound like your thing, then being a paralegal isn’t for you.
You’ll also need to have excellent skills in reading and writing and, of course, an interest in law. Though creativity and outside-the-box thinking are helpful as a paralegal, most of the work you’ll do is analytical and evidence-driven.
You’ll need to give consistent effort to your projects, as well. Most firms are busy year-round, with equally important cases falling back to back or even simultaneously.
Although being a paralegal is hard work, the industry needs dedicated individuals driven by goals and ambition. Many paralegals love the work they do and the people they work with.
At Esplin Weight, our staff of attorneys and paralegals make it a priority to provide the highest quality of counsel and expertise to our clients while maintaining a healthy work-life balance. Our skilled team of paralegals is an integral part of our firm, which is why we care how a day in the life of a paralegal goes. If you are interested in joining our team, contact us here.
