If you are a paralegal or are thinking about becoming one, make sure you master this list of top skills you will need for a successful career. They may seem pretty simple, but if you are going to be a paralegal you need to be really good in these areas:
- Teamwork. Since it is illegal for paralegals to practice law on their own, teamwork is inevitable. Paralegals must need to be able to work successfully with a team of other paralegals and lawyers as a basic part of their job.
- Communication. Paralegals serve as a liaison between lawyers, clients, experts, vendors, the opposing counsel, and other parties involved in litigation or transactions. This makes communication skills very important to paralegals and their careers.
- Interviewing. Paralegals need to interview clients and witnesses to get the information lawyers will need to solve legal cases.
- Writing. Paralegals will spend a large portion of their day drafting correspondence, pleadings, discovery, motions, briefs, legal memorandums, resolutions, agreements, contracts and various other legal documents.
- Research & Investigation. Paralegals need to master both traditional and internet research skills, as well as legal research databases such as Westlaw and Lexis/Nexis, in order to track down medical records, evidence, witnesses, and other documents.
- Technology. Paralegals need to be proficient in Microsoft Office, telecommunications, databases, and legal research software. They need to use spreadsheets, draft word documents and prepare digital presentations. Paralegals with advanced technology skills will have a competitive advantage in the legal market.
- Organization. Even day to day events that go on in law offices generate vast amounts of documents and data. This makes it very important for paralegals to have strong organizational skills.
- Multi-Tasking. Paralegals must be able to juggle multiple tasks at one time. The most successful paralegals are able to think flexibly, prioritize assignments and balance the demands of multiple supervisors and clients.
- Attention to Detail. Since lawyers must focus on the big picture, it’s up to the paralegals to pay attention to details.
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