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What do lawyers look for when hiring a paralegal?

I am about to go to school for paralegal studies and want to know what lawyers are specifically looking for.

Public Comments

1. I am a paralegal and they look for organization, knowledge of basic law ie never give legal advice..of course you no that, Some knowledge of what law you will be working at, typing ability, if you have done a brief or other docs make sure you bring them as samples, Remember it is your job to make your attorney look good, of course you screw up it is the attorney that gets the grief not you...always make them look good! They look for honesty, work ethic, personality and I found that when you go for an interview have some knowledge of the law firm or attorney that you may be working for. I have done domestic relations, custody and juvenile,,,very stressful and you deal with a lot of high emotions. When that type of client yells at you do not take it personally and as hard as it can be to snap back (trust me) you have to place yourself in that person's situation and try to calm the client down by telling the you understand their frustration, etc. I have done Workers' Compensation and Social Security calls are basically the same except this time they have no money for medical records, etc. to pay for their cases. The law is fascinating and frustrating at the same time. Do not let that discourage you. While taking classes you will find out what you enjoy. Just remember, the law is not black and white...it is VERY gray! A lot of people do not understand why some cases get punished more than others it is because of the laws written. You will learn all that. I would not change my major of paralegal for anything! I have done this for over 10 years now. I have learned a lot and still keep learning. Good luck to you!