The role of a paralegal is 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 who perform specifically delegated substantive legal work for which a lawyer is responsible (The Paralegal Professional Fourth Edition, pgs. 4, 22 & 28,). The primary function of a paralegal is to assist attorney in preparing for hearings, trials, meetings and real estate closings. Paralegals are also responsible for completing the preparatory work of a case which includes file creation and management, the completion of necessary documents and forms, maintaining financial records which would include billing and recordkeeping. Paralegals can assist in interviewing of clients and witnesses.
The paralegal requires many skill sets in order to be successful in this type of profession. As the text states, the acronym “PEOPLE” provides the embodiment of the skills needed and includes the following abilities listed below:
Problem-solving abilities (organization, judgement, logic, creativity, conflict resolution)
Ethics (diplomacy, courtesy, honesty, professionalism)
Open-mindedness (flexibility, open to new business ideas, positive outlook)
Persuasiveness (excellent communication and listening skills)
In addition, having the expertise in the relevant legal computer programs as well as proficiency in research skills are critical tools to becoming a successful paralegal. As technology moves ahead at the speed of light, being current with the necessary computer programs can streamline processes and help the paralegal gain more efficiency in his/her role. All of these skills are essential to provide the best possible professional service to the attorney and to the client.
It is not always clear if nonlawyer employees can represent a client, according to the text a paralegal would meet