Legal Paralegal
Responsible for performing substantive legal work, such as research and legal data collection in support of litigation, record requests, and researching and collecting legal data. A paralegal performs legal assistance that requires specialized education and training, but does not hold a license to practice law or give legal advice.
Typical Functions
Typical functions are listed within the level descriptors below and are examples of work performed by positions in the level and are not intended to be all-inclusive. Some duties may overlap levels; however, the preponderance of the work will be assessed when assigning positions to the specific levels.
Knowledge, Skills, Abilities (KSAs)
Listed below are the minimum requirements for this role. KSAs will become more advanced as the level increases and will vary depending on the requirements of the position.
- Communication, active listening, and interpersonal skills.
- Research and writing skills.
- Time management and organizational skills.
- Ability to act with discretion.
- Ability to multitask.
Level Descriptions
Legal Paralegal 1
- Performs specialized support for legal counsel by assisting with legal document preparation, discovery, and court filings.
- Summarizes the transcription of depositions and other documents.
- Reads, researches, reviews, analyzes, and verifies documents.
- Collects, compiles, copies, and indexes documents and records.
- Assists attorneys in preparing for legal proceedings by conducting research, creating timelines with supporting documentation, and preparing witnesses.
- Drafts pleadings, discovery requests, responses, and other litigation documents.
- Prepares charts, graphs, and other courtroom visuals.
- Serves as a liaison with external clients and opposing counsel.
- Assists legal counsel during proceedings.
- Works under the direction of legal counsel.
- Tasks and problems are usually routine and complex issues are referred to the immediate supervisor for guidance and resolution.
Education/Experience
Typically requires an associate’s degree in a relevant field and two years of relevant experience, or an equivalent combination of education, training, and experience.
Licenses/Certifications
Applicable certification may be required.
Market Range: MR09
Legal Paralegal 2
- In addition to the work performed at level 1, this role performs advanced specialized support for legal counsel by assisting with more complex and higher profile legal document preparation, discovery, and court filings.
- Oversees and manages work of level 1 by monitoring, tracking, and reporting on litigation activity.
- Performs administrative duties for office management such as new hire paperwork, reviewing timesheets, monitoring attendance, and coordinating annual reviews for support staff.
- Sets own priorities and goals and determines how to accomplish results with few or no guidelines to follow.
- Controversial or far-reaching matters are referred to a higher level.
- Decisions have a substantial impact on the management and operations of the department.
Education/Experience
Typically requires a bachelor’s degree in a relevant field and three years of relevant experience, or an equivalent combination of education, training, and experience.
Licenses/Certifications
Applicable certification may be required.
Market Range: MR10
Effective Date: January 4, 2021
