What is the role of a paralegal in the litigation process?

The role of a paralegal in the litigation process is primarily focused on assisting attorneys with case preparation and research. This includes a variety of tasks such as conducting legal research, drafting documents, preparing exhibits, and organizing case files, all of which are critical to building a strong case for the attorney. Paralegals enable attorneys to be more efficient and effective in their work by providing comprehensive support throughout all phases of litigation.

A paralegal does not represent clients in court, which is a function reserved for licensed attorneys. Additionally, while paralegals may engage in some administrative tasks as part of their job, their primary responsibilities extend far beyond administrative duties. They are trained to understand legal concepts and procedures, but they do not have the authority to make legal judgments, as this is also reserved for licensed attorneys. Therefore, the focus on aiding attorneys in their tasks and contributing to the overall preparation of a case underscores the essential role paralegals play in the litigation process.