Module 1 Assignment
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School
Forsyth Technical Community College *
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Course
110
Subject
Law
Date
Feb 20, 2024
Type
docx
Pages
2
Uploaded by Mackenziegc46
1.
What is a paralegal? Is there a difference between a paralegal and a legal assistant? What about between a paralegal and a legal secretary? A paralegal is a person who assists a lawyer by doing work that was traditionally done by the lawyer. This type of work includes client interviews, witness interviews, doing legal investigations and research, keeping track of important deadlines, as well as drafting legal documents and filing documents. Virtually, there is no difference between a paralegal and a legal assistant. The two words can be used interchangeably. However, there is a difference between and paralegal and a legal secretary. A legal secretary will mainly focus on administrative tasks in a law firm. 2.
List AND describe FIVE skills that are useful in paralegal practice. As you describe each skill, explain if you already have the skill or if you need to develop and improve the skill. The five skills that are useful in paralegal practice are analytical, communication, computer, organizational, and the ability to keep information confidential.
Analytical skills are required since paralegals are responsible for finding and analyzing information. According to the textbook, paralegals will need to be able to break down theories and fact patterns into components that are easily understandable. This is why reading comprehension is also needed. I am good at analyzing things but need to work on my reading comprehension.
Communication skills are also required. Paralegals should be able to communicate efficiently with clients, witnesses, judges, juries, and opposing attorneys. Not only do you have to have good interpersonal and
speaking skills, but you also need to have reading and writing skills. I feel I
need to improve my speaking and reading skills before becoming a paralegal.
The third skill a paralegal should have is computer skills. As a paralegal knowing how to use sophisticated software and how to adapt to new technology will help you get a higher-paying job, as stated by the text. When becoming a paralegal, learning the technology will help you be successful at your job. I am decent with technology, but I could most definitely improve my skills and learn more sophisticated software.
Another skill paralegals should have is organizational skills. Being an organized paralegal is highly beneficial to you and the firm. I may not be completely organized in my day-to-day life, but when it comes to work and school, I am much more organized.
And lastly, as a paralegal, you need to be able to keep information confidential. If a paralegal were to let out confidential information about a client or case, there would be consequences. This information you could
only discuss with the lawyer covering the case or the client. You should also be mindful when handling clients’ forms and documents. This is something I could do as a paralegal.
3.
What is the most significant area of expanding paralegal responsibility? Why is this area expanding? The most significant area of responsibility that is expanding for paralegals is technology. The area is expanding because they will use technology to perform their everyday tasks. 4.
Richard attends a six-month paralegal course and earns a certificate. In the West Coast city where he lives, certified paralegals - those with a CP or CLA designation - are in great
demand in the job market. Richard responds to a job posting for a certified paralegal, indicating that he is one. Has Richard done anything unethical? What is the difference between a certificate and a certification? He has done something unethical because there is a difference between a certificate and a certification. Richard has a certificate, which means he completed a paralegal program, but it does not mean he received formal certification. Richard could become a certified paralegal, but he would have to complete a certification process through the state he resides.
5.
Your neighbor’s son was assaulted at school. His mother is facing more than $5000 in medical and dental expenses as a result of his injuries, and she cannot afford to pay. She knows that you work as a paralegal in a law firm and asks if you will help her. She wants you to write a letter threatening legal action, which she will then sign, threatening to sue
the parents of the boys who beat up her son. Should you write the letter? Should you advise her on what action she might take? What are your ethical obligations in the situation? How could you help her without violating professional ethical standards?
As a paralegal, you are not able to give legal advice. Therefore, you should not write the letter nor advise her on anything. The only advice you should give her is
to talk to a lawyer. You could, however, gather any statements from her son and any witnesses. Otherwise, your hands are tied on what you can do.
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