Attorneys know that paralegals are great assets to law practices, and they can be involved at almost every stage of a case. However, when people face pressing legal matters, paralegals cannot provide the legal services necessary to protect client interests and adequately represent them. Legally, there are major differences between what a paralegal and an attorney can do. 

Here is a list of reasons why a paralegal is not good enough for numerous claims and cases.

Legal Consultations

Paralegals can set up schedules for legal consultations and assist attorneys during or after legal consultations with clients. However, only attorneys can give clients legal advice. Paralegals have no legal authority to set fees, either. Attorneys must set fees for all legal services, including flat fees.  

Legal Pleadings & Documents

Many attorneys use paralegals to help them prepare legal pleadings such as divorce complaints and answers, motions, and sets of interrogatories. They also assist lawyers in preparing documents like wills and power of attorney forms. However, the legal responsibility of approving and signing pleadings—or documents to be filed with a court or presented on behalf of a client—always remains with the client’s attorney.

Court Appearances

Paralegals perform significant tasks under an attorney’s supervision, such as researching legal issues, investigating facts, and drafting documents. However, they cannot make court appearances on behalf of clients. Only attorneys can appear in court and represent clients for calendar calls, status reports, hearings, and trials.

 

At My Legal Team, Inc., their paralegals and attorneys have over 30 years of combined experience and are dedicated to serving Los Angeles County residents for a variety of civil matters. Before you make any court appearances, visit their website to find out more about their high-quality yet affordable flat-fee services. Call (562) 444-8326 today to schedule a legal consultation with one of their experienced attorneys.