Legal dictionary

Paralegal

A person who is not a qualified or licensed lawyer but has some knowledge that enables such person to assist lawyers in a number of tasks. A paralegal usually acts as an enhancement of a lawyer performing specifically delegated legal work for which a lawyer is ultimately responsible. In order to become a paralegal, it is generally necessary to go through a training and/or take some classes in law.

In most jurisdictions, paralegals are not allowed to provide legal services directly to the public on their own and must work under an attorney or law firm.

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