Paralegal and Power

Chapter 1: The Professional Paralegal

What is a paralegal ?

Definition: A paralegal, or legal assistant is “ a person qualified by education, training, or work experience who is employed or retained by a lawyer, law office, corporation, governmental agency, or entity who performs specifically by delegated substances legal work for which a lawyer is responsible.

What do Paralegals Do?

The primary function of paralegals is to assist attorneys in preparing for hearings ,trails, meetings and closing/

Opportunities

Numbers and Salaries: In 200, paralegals held about 188,000 jobs in the United States, with median annual earnings of $35,360. The U.S Department of Labor projects that this profession will continue to be among the fastest growing through the year 2010.

Career Planning

Education: 1. General Education course

2. Associate’s degree or bachelor’s degree

Role of Paralegal

Level of Responsibility: The paralegal is a member of the legal service delivery team with responsibilities commensurate with his or hers education and experience.

National Association of Paralegals:

1. National Association of Legal Assistant

2. National Federation of Paralegals Association

3. Association of Legal Administrators

4. Legal Assistant Management Association