A Paralegal is a person qualified through education, training, or work to perform substantive legal work that requires knowledge of legal concepts and that is customarily, but not exclusively, performed by an attorney. The Paralegal is retained or employed by an attorney, law office, government business or other entity under the supervisory authority of an attorney. Paralegals are neither licensed nor certified by the State of Illinois.
Paralegals are resource persons who, as an important part of the legal team, assist in providing economical, quality legal services to clients at a reduced rate. A sampling of Paralegal tasks are as follows:
Paralegals are resource persons who, as an important part of the legal team, assist in providing economical, quality legal services to clients at a reduced rate. A sampling of Paralegal tasks are as follows:
- Conduct client interviews and maintain general contact with clients
- Locate and interview witnesses
- Conduct legal research
- Review and draft legal documents
- Summarize witness testimony
- Coordinate litigation proceedings
- Attend legal proceedings with an attorney present
- Use computer and technology
- Conduct factual research involving documents and internet resources
- Analyze and organize records and documents
- Assist with the preparation of cases and with appearances in court
- Establish attorney-client relationships
- Establish legal fees
- Give legal opinions or advice
- Represent a client before a court, unless authorized to do so by the court
- Engage in, encourage or contribute to any act that could constitute the unauthorized practice of law. (Only attorneys licensed by the Illinois Supreme Court can practice law in the state).
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