What does a Litigation Paralegal do?
Published 4 min read
A litigation paralegal is responsible for assisting attorneys in all stages of the litigation process. This may include tasks such as conducting legal research, drafting documents, and managing discovery. A successful litigation paralegal must be able to work independently and have strong organizational skills.
Litigation Paralegal job duties include:
- Assist attorneys in preparing for trials, hearings, and closings
- Investigate facts to help attorneys prepare cases
- Find and interview witnesses
- Help develop cases by researching statutes, judicial decisions, legal articles, and other materials
- Prepare legal documents, including briefs, pleadings, appeals, contracts, and real estate closing statements
- Organize and maintain files of documents and other reference materials
- Schedule appointments and meetings with clients, witnesses, experts, and attorneys
- Conduct computerized legal research using online databases
- Manage attorney calendars and case deadlines
Litigation Paralegal Job Requirements
A litigation paralegal is a professional who assists lawyers in the preparation of cases for trial. A successful litigation paralegal must have excellent research, writing, and analytical skills. In addition, a litigation paralegal must be able to work well under pressure and meet deadlines.
Most employers require that a litigation paralegal have at least an Associate's degree in paralegal studies. Many employers also prefer to hire candidates who have completed a certified paralegal program. Some employers may require that a candidate have a minimum of two years of experience working as a paralegal in a law firm.
Litigation Paralegal Skills
- Analytical skills
- Organizational skills
- Writing skills
- Research skills
- Problem-solving skills
- Critical thinking skills
- Flexibility
- Attention to detail
- Interpersonal skills
- Communication skills
- Time management skills
Related: Top Litigation Paralegal Skills: Definition and Examples
How to become a Litigation Paralegal
A litigation paralegal is a professional who works with lawyers and assists them in the preparation of cases for trial. A paralegal’s job is to perform many of the tasks that lawyers do, but they are not licensed to practice law. In order to become a litigation paralegal, one must have a bachelor’s degree and complete a paralegal studies program. Many community colleges and some four-year colleges offer these programs. Once you have completed a paralegal studies program, you will need to take a certification exam administered by the National Association of Legal Assistants (NALA). After passing the exam, you will be certified as a Certified Legal Assistant (CLA) or a Certified Paralegal (CP). To maintain your certification, you will need to complete continuing education courses every year.
Most paralegals work in law firms, but some also work in corporate legal departments or for government agencies. Litigation paralegals typically work on cases that are going to trial. They may do research, prepare documents, interview witnesses, and help lawyers prepare for trial. If you are interested in becoming a litigation paralegal, you should be detail-oriented and able to work well under pressure. You should also be able to handle confidential information discreetly.
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