The structure of legal firms is changing. More and more, certain legal matters are being given to paralegals. A paralegal, for example, may be required to perform include the reviewing and organization of client files. They may be asked to draft pleadings and perform other task – under the supervision of a qualified lawyer. In fact, paralegals are called upon to fulfill support roles for lawyers on a regular basis providing them with excellent job opportunities. This versatility alone is one reason to hire a paralegal.
What Exactly Does a Paralegal Do?
A paralegal fulfills a number of roles. Restrictions are placed upon what they can or cannot do in various states. Yet, in general, they can handle legal documents and papers under the supervision of a lawyer. Essentially, a lawyer may hire a paralegal to do any or all of the following:
• Conduct factual research
• Handle legal research
• Prepare documents
• Organize draft pleadings
• Review and consolidate client files
• Draft discovery notices
• Interview clients
• Interview witnesses
• Assist at closings and trials
Reasons to Hire a Paralegal
Yet, why should a law firm or lawyer a paralegal? Professional recruiting services as well as lawyers can provide several reasons for this upswing in choosing one. They include:
• Work: Paralegals perform work that would take up the time of attorneys needing to focus on other aspects
• Pay: Normally paralegals would be paid less than you would an attorney. Overall your costs to your firm and even your clients would be reduced. This will mean you can lower your legal fees to a more competitive level.
• Convenience: A paralegal in New York and across the States, can be part-time. They can be called in when required – hired from a legal recruiting agency for the time required and not a minute longer.
• Accessibility: Lawyers keep busy schedules and usually have more than one case at a time. Though every client requires personal attention, the paralegal will be sure to maintain client relationships. This will keep the client satisfied that progress is being made on his or her affairs.
These are but a few of the reasons for a law firm to hire a paralegal. This is becoming a very common practice as the dynamics of a firm shift. In terms of structure, it allows them to be more flexible in a variety of different ways. In terms of cost, it can create cost effective efficiencies to ensure the law firm remains competitive as more changes occur.
