State of the Paralegal Profession
The paralegal profession has transformed significantly over the years. Traditionally, paralegals were seen as support roles within law firms and legal departments, primarily handling administrative tasks [1]. However, their roles have expanded to include substantive legal work, such as conducting legal research, drafting legal documents, and assisting in trial preparation [1]. This shift has allowed paralegals to take on more complex tasks, assume influential and leadership roles, and contribute to the overall effectiveness and accessibility of legal services. The evolution of the paralegal profession has been driven by various factors, including regulatory changes, technological advancements, and the increasing demands of the legal system. As a result, paralegals are essential in streamlining legal processes, reducing costs, and increasing access to legal services for clients who may otherwise be unable to afford representation.
In 2015, Washington’s “limited license legal technicians” or “LLLTs” were the first paralegals licensed to provide expanded services within family law [3]. Much has been learned from Washington’s efforts and recent developments in paralegal licensing have further expanded the paralegal’s ability to serve their communities. Several states, including Arizona, Utah, Minnesota, and Oregon, have started programs allowing paraprofessionals to practice limited areas of law under supervision or after completing required training [2]. These initiatives aim to address gaps in legal services by recognizing and utilizing the full potential of paralegals. Additionally, there is a growing trend towards standardizing education and certification requirements for paralegals, which has long been a challenge for the profession [1]. These changes reflect a broader recognition of the valuable contributions paralegals make to the legal field and the importance of ensuring they are adequately trained and regulated.
Join us for the IPA’s third annual State of the Paralegal Profession which promises to be an insightful and informative session. Scheduled for August 6 from 11:30 AM to 1:00 PM CST, this event will feature a panel of distinguished speakers who will discuss their journeys, the continuing efforts to expand access to justice through paralegals, and current trends and possibilities for the future of the profession.
References
[1] Paralegal Profession: Key Changes and Implications - Intrepid Paralegal ...
[2] What does the future hold for licensed paraprofessionals?
[3] Licensing Paraprofessionals - Center on the Legal Profession
By Liana Podman
IPA Treasurer