Specific Functions of a Paralegal

I was asked to describe the paralegal services I provide in the simplest way possible. Here is my brief explanation as how I see and interpret my paralegal services:

The simplest explanation:
I, as a paralegal, am a disinterested third party who is credible, in the eyes of the court of law, who acts as a mediator when disputes arise between two or more parties.

Detailed explanation:
I, as a paralegal, am a disinterested third party who is credible, in the eyes of the court of law, who acts as a mediator when disputes arise between two or more parties. I am not an attorney, although the court recognizes me as a legal professional who has very similar obligations and duties as an attorney licensed to practice law.

As a paralegal I hold many different responsibilities, including, but not limited too the following:

• Investigator = I must ensure that the information given to me is accurate. Additionally, I must investigate every aspect of a case I am requested to service – if there are any holes, it is my job to fill them.
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• Mediator = When disputes arise between two or more parties it is my job to get the parties to communicate. For instance, if property is confiscated by the police, and the owner of the property questions the police officers actions, it is my job to ensure that the police officer provides the property owner with (1) proof of confiscation and (2) I must ensure that the confiscation was justified by researching the law (i.e., general laws, federal laws, court rules, case law, etc.). My main objective, however, is to get the parties to communicate. Always remember, "where communication fails, confusion follows!"
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• Dispute Resolution = If there is a dispute, I must follow the law and reach a legal resolution.
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• Enforcer of the Law = If a crime has been committed, it is my ethical duty to inform the proper authorities. I may also have to bring criminals up on charges and provide the prosecutors with the evidence needed to prove a criminal case beyond a reasonable doubt.
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• Evidence Technician = When it comes to civil cases, I may be the one who has to safeguard evidence for use at trial for a client.
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• Advocate = It is the paralegal who may have to represent a client before government agencies, police departments, board meetings, etc. Most government agencies, private organizations, the legal community, etc. all recognize Paralegals.
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• Counselor = When people are victimized, or families break up, I will be the one who will hear the clients story(ies). It is I who will comfort the client/victim and reassure them that things will get better.
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• THE LIST CONTINUES………

Many people believe that a paralegal is like a legal secretary whose only job function is to draft documents for lawyers. If only this was true, my job would be easy! LOL Sometimes I am required to work with an attorney, other times I work independently.

Keep in mind that the above only deals with my paralegal services. I am also a Public Officer and [Court] Process Server.

I hope this answers your question.


--- KOREY ---