Paralegals are the backbone of a law office, providing crucial support to attorneys and ensuring that legal teams operate smoothly. Their responsibilities vary depending on the area of law they work in, but common duties include conducting legal research, drafting documents, organizing case files, and communicating with clients, witnesses, and lawyers.
To excel as a paralegal, you need a diverse set of skills that blend technical expertise with strong interpersonal abilities. In this post, we’ll explore 10 key skills that can set you up for success in your paralegal career.
Hard skills, or technical skills, are job-specific abilities that can be learned and developed through training and experience. For paralegals, these include proficiency in legal software, knowledge of legal procedures, an understanding of compliance laws, experience with e-filing, and strong legal writing skills.
Paralegals must be proficient in case management systems like Clio, one of the most widely used cloud-based legal software platforms for billing, record management, client intake, and more.
At Bryan University, our paralegal programs provide hands-on experience with Clio, simulating real-world tasks to ensure students are job-ready upon graduation.
Other essential legal software includes e-discovery software, such as Relativity, an industry gold-standard eDiscovery tool. At BU, students also gain firsthand experience using Relativity and prepare for its entry-level certification exam.
A strong grasp of legal procedures, terminology, and principles is critical for paralegals. This foundational knowledge ensures accuracy in research, document preparation, and case management. Bryan University courses are hands-on to expose students to legal procedures, terminology, and principles.
Paralegals must stay up to date with state and federal regulations relevant to their practice area. For example, this includes key laws such as HIPAA, FRCP, ADA, FMLA, and FLSA. Understanding these regulations—and knowing how to interpret them—is vital to ensuring legal compliance.
Courts increasingly require electronic filing of legal documents, making e-filing expertise an essential skill. Paralegals must be comfortable using these systems to securely manage case files and meet court deadlines efficiently. Through taking multiple eDiscovery courses,Bryan University students gain mastery in e-filing.
Clear and precise legal writing is a must. Paralegals draft and assist in completing a variety of legal documents, including briefs, motions, contracts, and client correspondence. Strong writing skills ensure professionalism and accuracy in all legal communications.
Beyond technical skills, successful paralegals must possess key soft skills to navigate high-pressure environments, collaborate effectively, and communicate clearly.
Upholding ethical standards is one of the most important responsibilities of a paralegal. Understanding and adhering to professional codes of conduct—such as the NALA Code of Ethics and Professional Responsibility—is essential in maintaining trust and professionalism in the legal field.
Paralegals frequently interact with attorneys, clients, witnesses, and court officials. Whether drafting documents, writing emails, or speaking with clients, the ability to communicate clearly and effectively is vital.
Paralegals act as liaisons between different parties in the legal system. Whether coordinating with attorneys, court personnel, or other legal support staff, the ability to work well in a team is crucial for keeping cases on track.
Handling multiple cases, tight deadlines, and shifting priorities requires excellent time management. Paralegals must be able to multitask, stay organized, and prioritize work efficiently in a fast-paced legal environment.
Paralegals juggle numerous documents, deadlines, and case files, making strong organizational skills essential. Keeping case materials well-structured ensures nothing falls through the cracks and helps maintain efficiency in legal proceedings.
A successful paralegal has the needed hard skills and softs skills to excel, blending technical expertise with strong communication, ethics, and organization. Whether you’re just starting or looking to advance your career, mastering these 10 skills will set you apart in the legal field.
At Bryan University, our paralegal programs offer hands-on experience and real-world training to help you develop these essential skills. We offer a Paralegal Studies Undergraduate Certificate, an Associate Degree in Paralegal Studies, and a Bachelor of Science in Paralegal Studies.
Our programs were created with a focus on equipping students with the skills and knowledge to become professional working paralegals from day one. Our Associate Degree prepares you for the NALA’s Certified Paralegal Certification as well as the Relativity certification, and the cost is included in tuition.
Start your legal career today! Learn more about our paralegal programs online today or by calling us directly at 888-768-6861.
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