Paralegal Job Description

Key responsibilities

• 📚 Legal research: Paralegals dive deep into case law, legislation, and regulations to support lawyers with solid insights. They break down complex legal info into something useful, helping shape case strategies and ensuring the team is always legally prepared and one step ahead.
• 📑 Document management: Legal documents can pile up fast, but Paralegals keep things under control. They organise, index, and manage everything—from pleadings to client correspondence—so that the legal team can access what they need, when they need it.
• 🖊️ Drafting legal documents: Whether icontracts, affidavits or agreements, Paralegals often take the first pass. They set the foundation for accurate and legally sound documents that lawyers can then refine and make sure all the details are covered and risks are minimised.
• 📞 Client communication: Paralegals are often the friendly, knowledgeable point of contact for clients. They relay updates, gather information, and make sure everyone stays on the same page. Clear communication keeps things running smoothly and builds trust.
• 🔍 Case investigation: From interviews to evidence gathering, Paralegals help uncover the details that shape a strong legal argument. Their research and investigative work give lawyers the tools they need to craft compelling cases and reach successful outcomes.

Qualifications and skills

• Tertiary qualification in legal studies or related field: Gives you the essential knowledge of legal systems, procedures, and documentation.
• Experience in a legal office environment: You’ve worked in legal settings and know how to manage the paperwork, people, and pace.
• Strong research skills: You’re great at digging into legal topics and pulling together helpful insights.
• Excellent communication skills: You can speak and write clearly, whether you’re dealing with clients, legal teams, or court staff.
• Attention to detail: Nothing slips through the cracks—your work is accurate and compliant.
• Organisation and time management: You’re used to managing deadlines and prioritising tasks in busy legal environments.
• Technology proficiency: Comfortable with legal software and e-filing tools to help manage cases and streamline work.
• Understanding of confidentiality laws: You know how to handle sensitive info with professionalism and care.
• Problem-solving abilities: You think critically and offer practical solutions, even when things get complex.

Career path and opportunities

Curious about the legal world but not sure you want to be a solicitor? Paralegal roles give you real legal experience through drafting documents, supporting cases, and learning how legal systems actually work.
It’s a great starting point, and you’ll pick up tons of useful skills in research, organisation, and legal writing. With a few years’ experience, you can specialise in areas like corporate law, family law, or IP—or step up to senior roles managing casework or even junior team members.
Want to lead? You could move into paralegal management or legal operations. Or, if you're up for more study, you might train as a licensed conveyancer or go all the way and become a solicitor.
There’s also room to pivot into adjacent fields like compliance, HR, or even project management. This is a flexible, high-skill role with serious growth potential that's perfect if you’re detail-oriented and curious about the law.

Related job titles

• Legal Assistant
• Legal Secretary
• Law Clerk
• Compliance Officer
• Litigation Assistant
• Court Clerk
• Legal Researcher
• Document Reviewer
• Contract Administrator
• Case Manager
• Corporate Legal Assistant
• Intellectual Property Paralegal
• Real Estate Paralegal
• Family Law Paralegal
• Immigration Paralegal

Example job description

Job title: Paralegal

Job overview:
We’re looking for a detail-driven Paralegal to join a busy legal team. If you’re organised, curious, and passionate about the legal space, this role offers hands-on experience with real opportunities to grow. You’ll play a key part in keeping everything running smoothly behind the scenes.

Key responsibilities:

• Support lawyers by preparing and managing legal documents and records
• Conduct legal research and collect relevant materials
• Coordinate with clients, courts, and legal counsel
• Keep case files well-organised and up to date
• Review and summarise documents for attorney review

Required qualifications:

• Completed a recognised paralegal certificate or diploma
• At least 2 years’ experience in a similar legal support role
• Excellent time management and file organisation skills
• Clear and professional communication (written and verbal)
• Comfortable using legal research tools and Microsoft Office

Preferred qualifications:

• Experience in a legal team or corporate law firm
• Familiarity with court procedures and legal protocols
• Able to handle sensitive info with care and discretion

Perks/benefits:

• Competitive salary with bonuses
• Health and wellbeing support
• Training and career development opportunities
• Flexible working arrangements
• Supportive, collaborative legal team

Frequently asked questions

What does a Paralegal do?

Paralegals are the support system behind every great legal team. They manage files, draft documents, handle research, and keep everything organised so lawyers can focus on strategy and outcomes.

What are their key duties and responsibilities?

They prep legal documents, conduct research, manage communication with clients, and ensure case files are accurate and up to date. Paralegals also handle administrative tasks like filing with courts or government agencies to keep things running smoothly.

What makes a great Paralegal?

They’re detail-driven, super organised, and love structure. Great Paralegals are strong communicators, quick learners, and thrive in fast-paced environments. Their efficiency and attention to detail are what keep legal processes on track—and their team supported.