Hiring a Paralegal for Your Law Firm

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There’s a 12% growth projection for one particular position in the legal industry. And judging by the title of this article, you’ve probably already guessed correctly what that position is. 

While some fear that advancing technology is making paralegal jobs non-existent, lawyers and legal teams still need support to fulfill their commitments to clients. Making the professionals able to serve that role with their paralegal studies, expertise, and skill the very thing robots just can’t replace.

Though paralegal opportunities are easy enough to promote, the right fit isn’t as easy to come by for those with hiring needs that stretch beyond the basic requirements. But just to set the bar for those bare necessities, your next paralegal should have the following list covered.

Paralegal career essentials

Legal studies:

• An associate’s or bachelor’s degree in paralegal studies
• For some, light paralegal training is a requirement, though greener hires may still need on-the-job training
• A paralegal certificate for professionals to be up to date with the latest practices
• And in some cases, dedication to passing the state bar

Work experience:

• The number of years of experience varies greatly from position to position, but in any case, a general understanding of paralegal services and the court system is a baseline.
• Any roles or training that required a familiarity and ability to handle legal documents.
• A background in meeting deadlines, multi-tasking, as well as coordinating with legal teams (which could be with lawyers directly, legal assistants, or at the very least a legal secretary).

Desired skillset:

• Excellent communication skills are a must since those you hire will most likely be interacting with your team and clients. Whether face-to-face, non-verbal, or under personal circumstances, a level of professionalism will need to be transmitted to serve the best interest of your business. 
• In order to record and relay information, a paralegal’s writing skills play a similarly crucial role. They are relied upon for efficient dictation, correspondence, and the drafting of various legal documents.
• The research and organization of newly hired paralegals are among the most useful skill combos. They’re essentially the “make-it” or “break-it” resource for jobs done well and in a timely manner.
• Lastly, paralegals proficient in technological tools and applications are an asset for hiring firms. Not only does this skill help optimize the previous skills mentioned, but it’s increasingly in demand as virtual legal services continue to expand.

Paralegals for different areas of law

Not all paralegals can move indifferently between fields, and for some areas of law, this particular legal profession requires a more detailed candidate description. These are just a few qualifications that help paralegals on the market stand out, depending on your practice.

Real Estate– Superb paralegals within the real estate field of law typically have a bachelor’s degree in legal support services, will have prior experience as a legal secretary or assistant, and have first to second-hand knowledge about buyers, lenders, title companies, property management, and of course, real estate.

Corporate- Corporate paralegals that help ensure organizations stay grounded within federal and state compliance more often than not require participation in a certificate program based on the industry. Highly sought-after skills involve corporate minute books, confidentiality agreements, mergers and acquisitions, and contract preparation.

Family Law– This area of law excels with professionals who already have a paralegal degree and have an incredible amount of patience and due diligence regarding the families and cases they’re involved with. As with any other specialized area of law, expertise and skills specific to the industry, such as family estate, divorce, and child custody law are helpful.

Probate & Estate Planning– Similar to those above, qualified paralegals in this legal field will have at least an associates in paralegal studies or legal support services. An excellent candidate will have a broad understanding of wills, trusts, estate inventories, investments and assets, as well as probate processes.

Criminal Law- Certificate programs and volunteer work or internships with exposure to criminal procedures and trials are a leg up for potential hires. Criminal defense paralegals with experience in witness interviews, trial management, and knowledge of sentencing guidelines are worth investing in.
Are you looking for a game-changer for your firm, or know of a paralegal looking for their next opportunity? Reach out to an expert recruiter by clicking on the banner below.

Contributed by Mary Dominguez