Law & Public Policy

Paralegal

Supports lawyers with legal research, drafting, and case preparation.

Content last reviewed: August 2026

A paralegal supports attorneys by conducting legal research, drafting documents, organizing case files, and preparing materials for hearings, trials, or transactions, doing much of the substantive prep work that a case or deal requires. A typical day includes researching case law or statutes, drafting or reviewing documents, and organizing evidence or discovery materials.

Deadlines in legal work are often strict and non-negotiable (court filing deadlines, for instance), which makes organization and attention to detail essential, not optional, parts of the job.

Core tasks

✓Conducting legal research
✓Drafting legal documents and correspondence
✓Organizing case files and evidence
✓Preparing materials for hearings, trials, or closings
✓Communicating with clients under attorney supervision
✓Tracking deadlines and court filing requirements

Tools & skills used

Legal research skills and databasesDocument drafting and reviewOrganization and attention to detailUnderstanding of legal procedureConfidentiality and professional judgmentTime management under strict deadlines

Typical entry paths

→Legal Studies / Pre-Law or a paralegal certificate program
→Many paralegals hold a bachelor's degree in an unrelated field plus a paralegal certificate

Common misconceptions

Paralegals aren't lawyers and can't give legal advice or represent clients in court, the role is specifically defined around supporting licensed attorneys.
A law degree isn't required or expected for this role; it's a distinct career path with its own certification options.

Frequently asked questions

What does a Paralegal do?

Supports lawyers with legal research, drafting, and case preparation.

What are the core tasks of a Paralegal?

Day to day, this typically includes: Conducting legal research; Drafting legal documents and correspondence; Organizing case files and evidence.

What tools or skills does a Paralegal use?

Common tools and skills for this role include Legal research skills and databases, Document drafting and review, Organization and attention to detail, Understanding of legal procedure.

How do people typically become a Paralegal?

Legal Studies / Pre-Law or a paralegal certificate program. Many paralegals hold a bachelor's degree in an unrelated field plus a paralegal certificate.

What's a common misconception about being a Paralegal?

Paralegals aren't lawyers and can't give legal advice or represent clients in court, the role is specifically defined around supporting licensed attorneys.

What college majors lead to becoming a Paralegal?

Majors that commonly lead here include Legal Studies / Pre-Law, Criminal Justice, Political Science. A major shapes what you study, it isn't a guarantee of landing this specific role.

This describes what the role typically involves day to day. It's not a guarantee of hiring, salary, or advancement, actual responsibilities vary by employer, industry, and location. See our disclaimer.