Family law paralegals work for attorneys specializing in issues like divorce and child custody. They help their clients through these difficult times by offering emotional support as well as finding just resolutions.
Lawyers research laws and previous cases to find the optimal way to approach any given case, as well as draft legal papers like motions and agreements.
Job duties
Family law paralegals assist attorneys during all aspects of family legal cases. This may include negotiating contentious custody agreements and filing paperwork with the court as well as supporting families through some of their most trying times. Working as a family law paralegal requires having a thorough knowledge of legal procedures as well as working well with clients.
Family law paralegals play an integral part in researching laws related to this field, which is often instrumental in winning cases. Furthermore, they ensure all paperwork is organized and ready to be submitted to court – like an organizer keeping your school binder organized!
Paralegals can serve as an intermediary in sensitive client/lawyer situations, listening to clients and their concerns while answering any inquiries that may arise.
Education requirements
There are various methods available to you in order to gain the education and skills required of a family law paralegal, including certification programs or associate’s or bachelor’s degrees in paralegal studies. Some schools also provide courses dedicated to family law paralegal work.
Working in family law can take its toll, from pride and joy when creating adoption papers to pain and anguish during divorce cases and child custody hearings – making it a highly complex field of law for paralegal professionals.
As is true of all legal assistants, family law paralegals must possess an impeccable work ethic and an intimate knowledge of relevant laws pertaining to family issues. Prioritization skills and organization abilities should also be among their qualities; communication with clients should also be strong since these paralegals often serve as attorneys’ first point-of-contact, providing answers for cases in need.
Salary
Family law paralegals are frequently hired by attorneys specializing in family-related cases to support them as legal assistance is sought during times of emotional strain for family units. With so much interpersonal communication involved in this position – such as meeting clients and other parties involved in cases – having outstanding people skills is paramount in this position.
Some family law paralegals work for small firms specializing in certain aspects of family law while others serve as in-house legal departments for large corporations. Assisting attorneys as well as helping their clients navigate complex legal matters with tight deadlines is often part of these professionals’ daily duties.
Family law paralegal salaries can differ widely depending on their location and level of experience. For instance, those working in New York City typically earn higher wages than their counterparts in Chicago; additional factors that contribute to determining family law paralegal salaries include educational qualifications and experience levels.
Work environment
As a paralegal, your job will involve assisting attorneys guide families through legal matters. It can be an intensive role, so you must be comfortable working under pressure as well as conducting thorough research. In some instances, paralegals may qualify for bonuses and overtime pay. These extra benefits could increase both their salaries as well as improve career prospects.
Family law paralegals interact directly with clients and witnesses, so excellent communication skills are crucial in sensitive cases such as divorce and child custody proceedings. You must be able to explain complex issues clearly so your clients understand them fully.
Family law paralegals provide general support for attorneys as well as performing legal research pertaining to cases, statutes, laws and evidence. Furthermore, they collect and organize paperwork related to each case before helping prepare legal documents on behalf of their attorneys.