Job Description
For example, a Legal Assistant who has worked in bankruptcy law may be able to transfer those skills to a role in real estate law. Legal Assistant job description
Legal Assistants handle a variety of administrative and clerical tasks for Lawyers and other legal professionals. They typically work in law firms but may also work for government agencies, corporate legal departments or other organizations. They assist Lawyers by conducting research, drafting legal documents and communicating with clients. They also manage office tasks, such as scheduling appointments, making copies and organizing files. Legal Assistants may specialize in a particular area of law, such as real estate, family law or criminal law, or they may work on a variety of legal matters.
Legal Assistant job duties and responsibilities
Communicate with clients, gathering necessary documents and information to begin building a case. Conduct all initial research and provide information to the Lawyer. Manage all administrative responsibilities in the legal office. Draft the first copy of legal documents. Organize all legal documents in a confidential way. Contact witnesses and record interviews. Review police reports and gather evidence. Prepare documents for court proceedings. Schedule appointments and maintain calendars. Prepare and send correspondence to clients, opposing counsel and court officials. Process client payments and manage billing records. Maintain filing systems and manage document storage. Assist Lawyers in the courtroom by organizing documents and rehearsing statements. Collaborate with other Legal Assistants or Paralegals to complete tasks efficiently. Stay up-to-date with changes in laws and regulations. Handle confidential information with discretion.
Legal Assistant job requirements and qualifications
Associate degree in paralegal studies or related field. Strong computer skills, including proficiency in Microsoft Office and legal research databases. Excellent written and verbal communication skills. Ability to maintain confidentiality. Strong organizational skills. Previous experience in a legal setting preferred. Knowledge of specific legal practice areas preferred. Familiarity with legal terminology and procedures. Attention to detail and accuracy. Ability to work independently and as part of a team. Strong time management skills.
Legal Assistant education and training requirements
A minimum of an associate degree in paralegal studies is often required to work as a Legal Assistant. Some Legal Assistants may have a bachelor’s degree and some may be working toward entrance to law school. Many aspiring Lawyers or Paralegals will pursue employment as a Legal Assistant in preparation for a career as a Lawyer or Paralegal. Some hiring managers may prefer to hire a candidate without prior experience and then train them on the individual needs of the law firm while encouraging them to become certified as a Legal Assistant.
Legal Assistant experience requirements
Whether or not previous legal experience is required to work as a Legal Assistant will depend on the individual needs of the law firm and its Lawyers. Larger law firms with many clients may prefer to hire a Legal Assistant who has previous experience in this role. Others may prefer to hire a Legal Assistant with previous experience in the same legal industry in which they work. Some Legal Assistants may transfer certain skills developed from one legal field to a new one. For example, a Legal Assistant who has worked in bankruptcy law may be able to transfer those skills to a role in real estate law.
Legal Assistant salary expectations
Legal Assistants make an average of $20.40 per hour nationally. Brandon Legal Group pays a competitive rate. Pay rate may vary depending on the education, experience level and geographical location of the Legal Assistant. The specific duties of the Legal Assistant and the type of legal work they do may also determine the pay rate. For example, an entry-level Legal Assistant who works for a smaller law firm that specializes in auto accidents can usually expect to earn less than an experienced Legal Assistant who works for a law firm with high-profile legal cases.
Legal Assistant job outlook
The job outlook for Legal Assistants is expected to grow at a rate of 12% from 2018 to 2028, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. This is faster than the average growth rate for other occupations. As the demand for legal services continues to increase, so will the need for qualified Legal Assistants to support Lawyers and other legal professionals. Additionally, as law firms look for ways to increase efficiency and lower costs, they may rely more heavily on Legal Assistants to handle tasks that do not require the expertise of a Lawyer.
Legal Assistant work environment
Legal Assistants typically work in law firms, but they may also work in government agencies, corporate legal departments or other organizations. They may work in a traditional office setting or remotely, depending on the needs of their employer. Legal Assistants often work full-time, but some may work part-time or on a contract basis. They may also work long hours, especially when preparing for trials or court cases.
Conclusion
A Legal Assistant plays a crucial role in supporting Lawyers and other legal professionals in their day-to-day tasks. They are responsible for conducting research, drafting legal documents, managing office tasks and communicating with clients. To become a Legal Assistant, one must have a minimum of an associate degree in paralegal studies and possess strong computer, communication and organizational skills. With a growing demand for legal services, the job outlook for Legal Assistants is expected to be positive, making it a promising career choice for individuals interested in the legal field.
