A trained legal professional who assists lawyers with research, drafting, and case management tasks under attorney supervision.
What paralegals do
Paralegals research statutes and case law, draft pleadings and contracts, organize case files, prepare for depositions and trials, and communicate with clients and opposing counsel. They cannot give legal advice or represent clients in court but handle many substantive tasks under attorney supervision.
Training path
US paralegals typically hold an associate degree in paralegal studies or a paralegal certificate following another bachelor’s degree. Voluntary certification from organizations such as NALA or NFPA can improve job prospects but is not required.
Settings
Paralegals work in private law firms, corporate legal departments, government agencies, public defender and prosecutor offices, courts, and legal aid organizations. Many specialize by practice area.
Find more professions by letter
Paralegal starts with P and ends with L. Browse other professions along the same letter.
Professions that contain a letter from "Paralegal":