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Paralegal Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

๐Ÿง‘โ€โš–๏ธ
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paralegal

[หŒpรฆrษ™หˆliหษกษ™l ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

legal profession

A paralegal is a person trained in legal procedures and terminology who assists lawyers in their work. They often perform tasks such as legal research, document preparation, and client communication. Paralegals are not licensed attorneys but play a vital role in the efficiency of legal operations.

Synonyms

law clerk, legal aide, legal assistant.

Examples of usage

  • The paralegal conducted extensive research for the case.
  • She works as a paralegal in a law firm downtown.
  • Paralegals can prepare legal documents under the supervision of an attorney.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Educational Pathways

  • Many paralegals earn a certificate or associate degree from community colleges or universities specializing in paralegal studies.
  • Continuing education is common, with many paralegals taking courses to stay updated on legal practices and technologies.

Roles and Responsibilities

  • Common tasks include drafting documents, conducting legal research, and assisting with case preparation.
  • Paralegals cannot provide legal advice or represent clients in court, which distinguishes them from attorneys.

Pop Culture

  • Paralegals often appear in legal dramas like 'Law & Order,' showcasing their role in supporting the legal team.
  • The character of a paralegal can add depth to stories in movies, often highlighting their behind-the-scenes importance.

Work Environment

  • Paralegals typically work in law firms, corporate legal departments, or government agencies, contributing to various legal practices.
  • The demand for paralegals is increasing, with many firms relying on them to handle routine tasks, allowing lawyers to focus on complex cases.

Origin of 'paralegal'

Main points about word origin

  • The term 'paralegal' was first recorded in the 1960s, combining 'para,' meaning alongside, and 'legal,' referring to law.
  • Originally, before the term was widely used, similar roles existed under titles like legal secretary or legal assistant.

The term 'paralegal' originated in the United States in the 1960s as a way to describe individuals who perform legal tasks but are not licensed to practice law. The prefix 'para-' comes from the Greek word for 'beside' or 'alongside,' indicating that paralegals work alongside attorneys rather than being attorneys themselves. The profession grew rapidly as demand for legal services increased and lawyers sought to reduce costs by supervising trained individuals to help manage their workload. Over the years, the role of paralegals has evolved, with many now specializing in specific areas of law, such as family law, criminal law, or corporate compliance.

Word Frequency Rank

At rank #27,500, this word represents specialized academic or technical vocabulary. It's less frequently encountered but may be valuable in specific contexts.