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A career as a paralegal

Solicitors and barristers offices employ a range of people in a variety of roles, aside from the advocating legal minds.
Paralegals are a vital part of the support network working alongside the lawyers and perform a wide variety of roles - often creating good opportunities for career progression.
In general terms, a paralegal performs legal work but is not a qualified lawyer. This can include casework, running searches on properties, meeting and advising clients and assisting lawyers with a heavy work load on some of the more basic.
A paralegal often does more advanced work than a legal secretary but not as much as a solicitor - therefore it is a good bridge position for an individual hoping to progress their career to the next level and often law firms will pay for their paralegals to take their legal qualifications after they have worked for the firm for a period of time.
Paralegals are employed in a wide range of organisations, including law firms, public sector bodies, businesses and in industry.
Applicants do not need to have any specific qualifications to earn this title. However, good passes at GCSE or A-level will be favoured by employees, with subjects such as law, business studies and history being particularly relevant, although not necessary.
Applicants for paralegal jobs online do not need to have a degree, although holding one will only stand them in good stead. Again, a degree in law, business studies, history or English will be looked upon favourably.
Training and qualifications specifically for paralegals can be gained through the Institute of Paralegals, the National Institute of Legal Executives, Paralegal Distance Learning and the Association of Licensed Paralegals.
On a daily basis, a paralegal can expect to perform administrative tasks such as arranging meetings, sending out bills and answering the telephone, as well as undertaking more technical tasks such as drafting and proofreading documents, taking notes at court and letter writing.
Often paralegals prepare litigation bundles, manage case files, perform legal research, liaise with clients and take witness statements.
Those starting out in the profession should be able to demonstrate experience working in an office environment - even if it is not a legal office. Secretarial work and a good telephone manner will be beneficial and employment as a legal secretary is often a route into the role.
Personal attributes that employers will value include communication and dictation skills, good grammar and the ability to write clear letters.
Being able to work in a team and be a supportive member of an organisation will also be useful.