Legal Support Job Description

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