A legal support worker, sometimes referred to as a legal assistant or paralegal, is responsible for supporting attorneys and maintaining the efficient operation of a law firm or legal department. Their duties can vary depending on the specific workplace but generally include a combination of administrative, research, and client-focused tasks[1][2][5].
- Conducting legal research: Identifying and retrieving relevant laws, judicial decisions, and legal articles to support attorneys in case preparation and legal decision-making[1][2].
- Drafting legal documents: Assisting in the preparation of pleadings, motions, contracts, correspondences, and other legal forms while ensuring clarity and accuracy[1][2][6].
- Compiling, analyzing, and organizing information: Gathering and structuring case details, exhibits, and other evidence to support legal proceedings and trial preparation[1][4][5].
- Administrative and clerical support: Managing files, scheduling meetings, maintaining calendars, answering phones, and supporting the overall organization of the legal office[3][5][7].
- Assisting attorneys during trials: Helping with the preparation and management of trial materials, contacting witnesses, handling exhibits, and taking detailed notes during court proceedings[1][4][5].
- Client communication and customer service: Acting as a first point of contact, gathering initial information from clients, answering inquiries, and maintaining ongoing communications[3][6][7].
- Billing and financial recordkeeping: Preparing invoices, tracking billable hours, and assisting with basic accounting tasks as needed[2][3][6].
- Supervision and delegation: Delegating responsibilities to junior staff or supervising other support personnel when required[2].
- Utilizing technology: Employing software tools for document management, research, calendaring, and client communications to streamline workflow[5][6].
Legal support workers play a vital role in ensuring legal professionals can focus on casework by handling foundational duties that keep operations running smoothly[1][6].
References
- [1] Legal Support Worker – Bryant & Stratton College
- [2] Legal Support Worker Job Description – Diversity Jobs
- [3] What is a Legal Assistant? Their Roles and Duties Explained – MyCase
- [4] Top 10 Legal Assistant Duties [+ Job Description Template] – Virtual Latinos
- [5] Professional Legal Support Worker Job Description Template – MightyRecruiter
- [6] What Is a Legal Assistant? Their Role and How It Helps Lawyers – Clio
- [7] Legal Assistant Job Description [Updated for 2025] – Indeed