How does the paralegal’s duty compare to the attorney’s duty? -
The duty of a paralegal and an attorney may vary in terms of their specific responsibilities and level of professional judgment.
Paralegals are typically responsible for performing tasks that support attorneys in the practice of law. They assist with legal research, drafting legal documents, organizing case files, and conducting client interviews. Paralegals also handle administrative tasks such as scheduling meetings, managing correspondence, and maintaining calendars.
However, paralegals are not licensed to practice law and therefore cannot provide legal advice or represent clients in court. They work under the supervision and direction of attorneys, who have the ultimate responsibility for the cases they handle.
Attorneys, on the other hand, have a broader range of duties and responsibilities. They are licensed professionals who are trained to provide legal advice, represent clients, and advocate on their behalf. Attorneys are responsible for developing legal strategies, analyzing legal issues, making critical decisions, and representing clients in court proceedings or negotiations. They have the authority to enter into agreements and make legal arguments on behalf of their clients.
While both paralegals and attorneys play crucial roles in the legal field, the attorney's duty carries more weight as they have the final responsibility for the outcomes and decisions in legal matters. The attorney's duty encompasses the ethical obligations to clients, the court, and the legal profession, including maintaining client confidentiality, avoiding conflicts of interest, and upholding the standards of professional conduct.