Careers in Paralegal Studies

Law Firms

Paralegals help lawyers prepare for closings, hearings, trials, etc.  Paralegals investigate the facts of cases and make sure all information is considered and they also identify other materials (laws, judicial decisions, legal articles, etc.) that are relevant to assigned cases.  Paralegals also draft pleadings and motions to be filed with the court, obtain affidavits, prepare legal documents, and assist attorneys during the trials.  Paralegals assist attorneys with making all important case documents and files organized, available, and easily accessible.

Corporate Legal Departments

Paralegals within corporate legal departments assist attorneys with employee benefit plans, employee contracts, shareholder agreements, and stock option plans.  They often monitor and review government regulations to keep their corporation in check with new requirements; making sure it operates within the law.

Public Sector

Paralegals within the public sector analyze legal material for internal use, maintain reference files, conduct research for attorneys, and collect and analyze evidence for agency hearings.  Community legal-service paralegals are involved in projects to help others who are in need of legal assistance (the poor, the aged, etc.).  In this line of work, paralegals will conduct research, file forms, prepare documents, and at some times represent clients at administrative hearings.