Legal assistants provide support to attorneys by gathering case data, organizing legal paperwork, and assisting in courtroom proceedings. They assist attorneys in getting ready for trial by conducting research and organizing the information and documents related to cases. There are many different fields in which legal assistants can work, including business law, criminal law, litigation, immigration, etc. So, let’s check What Is a Legal Assistant and what they do.
What exactly does a legal aide do?
A legal assistant assists attorneys and other legal professionals by carrying out a variety of administrative duties. This may entail handling legal paperwork and supporting attorneys in court. Legal assistant responsibilities can vary depending on the size and type of the firm, but they may include:
- Carrying out fundamental administrative and client service duties, like returning phone calls, addressing clients, and responding to emails.
- Keeping all legal paperwork or correspondence organized and current.
- Assisting with the preparation for mediation, arbitration, and other forms of alternative dispute resolution, as well as the drafting of contracts, pleadings, legal briefs, letters, and other legal documents.
- Analyzing and researching legal documents and information to aid lawyers in their cases, consisting of analyzing case statutes and law.
- Gathering all statements, documents, and evidence a lawyer will need for trial.
- Maintaining and updating client files and case management systems, as well as organizing and maintaining the office’s legal library and databases are among the responsibilities of a biller and accountant. They also prepare and file legal papers with the court, such as pleadings, motions, and briefs.
The average legal assistant salary
The average pay for a legal assistant varies depending on the area, experience, size, and nature of the firm. Employers frequently pay legal assistants by the hour because they are usually entry-level positions.
Needs for a legal assistant
Before beginning their careers, legal assistants from Grow Law Firm can meet the following prerequisites:
- Education: Most legal assistants hold an associate degree that is at least two years long, preferably in paralegal studies. However, many firms are looking for applicants with paralegal or law-related bachelor’s degrees.
- Training: Some law companies offer new college graduates or people without formal schooling or legal experience on-the-job training. Legal assistants may be taught to file and arrange legal and judicial papers using computer software. Document management systems, legal research databases, as well as court filing systems are a few examples of software that might be employed.
Certifications
The CLA or Certified Legal Assistant certification, which focuses on paralegal responsibilities, is preferred by some law firms even though it is not required. After proving that you have a degree in law or paralegal studies or have attended specific classes in those fields, you must pass an exam administered by the Bar Association of your state to become a certified legal assistant.
