Lawyer Lifesaver

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Lawyers always carry a lot of responsibilities. A handful of clients and a lot of research would eat up the most of their life’s time. This and finance reasons were the reasons of the rise of paralegals.

What are Paralegals? A paralegal is a lawyer’s right hand. A paralegal is a generalist and specialist at the same time.  Paralegals organize client files, draft correspondence, do research, monitor deadlines and investigate and analyze documents. ‘

The rise of these legal assistants has improved the efficiency, cost and availability of legal services. Because of this, paralegals have been in demand. The flexibility and variety of the law-related job they’re out for has continue to demand the paralegals. With the rising demand, job opportunities of these paralegals tend to rise. With such competition going on in this field, one must always be one step further the rest of his opponents in the said job. Securing a spot in a paralegal job outlook is quite easy. Firstly, one, if possible, must have formal training on being a paralegal. There are many ways to have this one actually. One may go to a community college or universities that offer associates, bachelors or masters degree in paralegal studies. Certification on being a paralegal may also be required in some cases. Most importantly, a thorough knowledge of legal principles, legal research techniques and legal terminologies is essential in having a paralegal career. A proficient knowledge in the use of computers as well as knowledge of government regulations may be necessary.

Being a paralegal requires skills. In getting this avenue as a career, it is somewhat vital for one to have a commendable research skills, analytical skills and critical thinking skills. Research skills are vital in a paralegal for these spend most of their time in the computer or library researching for relevant information in a case. Analytical skills and critical thinking skills on the other hand are also vital for a paralegal also analyzes his research. He makes a report on his analysis and passes it to his boss for further evaluation. Like a secretary, a paralegal must also need skills on organization and planning. Part of a paralegal’s job is to keep track of the files and materials to be used in the case and planning or setting up dates for interviews. Strong communication skill is also needed as one may be able to speak up to his clients as a case may need information. Lastly, one must be able to handle stress this job gives to one. A paralegal works for 9 hours usually but they sometimes tend to burn the midnight oil for them to catch up with the deadlines. Deadlines are important in this job for information these paralegals get is vital for the case.

The paralegal salary may vary in the location, geography and size of the employing company or firm. In small law firms, the starting paralegal salary may range to $1,300 or $1,800 per month. Paralegal employees working in federal government earn annually $20,000 to $25,000 depending on one’s’ experience and skills.