Entry-Level Paralegal Jobs
An entry-level paralegal’s most important task is helping lawyers prepare for closings, hearings, trials, and corporate meetings. Entry-level paralegals might investigate the facts of cases and ensure that all relevant information is considered. They also identify appropriate laws, judicial decisions, legal articles, and other materials that are relevant to assigned cases. Entry-level paralegals prepare written reports that attorneys use in determining how cases should be handled, help to prepare the legal arguments, draft pleadings and motions to be filed with the court, obtain affidavits, and assist attorneys during trials. Entry-level paralegals also organize and track files of all important case documents and make them available and easily accessible to attorneys. Corporate paralegals assist attorneys with employee contracts, shareholder agreements, stock-option plans, and employee benefit plans. They also may help prepare and file annual financial reports, maintain corporate minutes’ record resolutions, and prepare forms to secure loans for the corporation. Some entry-level paralegals coordinate the activities of other law office employees and maintain financial office records. An entry-level paralegal requires a bachelor’s degree. Entry-level paralegals must be able to document and present their findings and opinions to their supervising attorney. They need to understand legal terminology and have good research and investigative skills. They should be familiar with the operation and applications of computers in legal research and litigation support also is important. Entry-level paralegals should stay informed of new developments in the laws that affect their area of practice.
