paralegal


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paralegal

n. a non-lawyer who performs routine tasks requiring some knowledge of the law and procedures, employed by a law office or who works free-lance as an independent for various lawyers. Usually paralegals have taken a prescribed series of courses in law and legal processes, which is much less demanding than those required for a licensed attorney. Paralegals are increasingly popular, often handling much of the paper work in probates of estates, divorce actions, bankruptcies, investigations, analyzing depositions, preparing and answering interrogatories, procedural motions and other specialized jobs. Clients should be sure that the hourly rate charged for paralegals is much less than that for the attorneys.

Copyright © 1981-2005 by Gerald N. Hill and Kathleen T. Hill. All Right reserved.

paralegal

a person who assists a fully enrolled or admitted lawyer. The scope of activity varies from place to place but often the paralegal can have substantial client-care contact, be heavily involved in drafting standard documents and actively liaise with the professionals in progressing court actions. In England and Wales there is a high-level profession of LEGAL EXECUTIVE.
Collins Dictionary of Law © W.J. Stewart, 2006
References in periodicals archive ?
"Paralegals and lawyers would all benefit from this program.
The Bureau of Labor Statistics goes on to project that employment among paralegals will grow approximately 15 percent from 2016 to 2026.
Given her experience, Bohn also helps train new paralegals and associate attorneys.
The program also includes a required practicum at a law office where paralegal students gain practical skills under the supervision of an attorney site mentor.
For information about the Metrolina Paralegal Association, visit www.charlotteareaparalegals.com
'I'm happy to have served as a paralegal aide because I got the chance to help my dorm mates.
Badua served in a variety of roles for the Hawaii Paralegal Association, including President, Vice President, Secretary, Treasurer, Director of Publications, Director of Professional Development, Board Advisor and local association national affairs delegate to the NFPA for eight consecutive years.
So when might you use the services of a paralegal? | If you have been arrested for a minor criminal offence and need representation.
ISLAMABAD -- Government officials, paralegals, and international and national representatives came together here on Thursday to issue the Islamabad Declaration on Community Based Paralegals, affirming the important role, they play in resolving conflicts within communities.
A paralegal expert understands, strategizes and executes modern day corporate functions and understands the business as well as the "right" way to do the business legally.