A Paralegal is a trained professional who works alongside a Lawyer to assist them with their legal activities and administrative tasks. Depending on their experience, a Paralegal is often tasked with preparing legal documents, researching precedents for specific cases, conducting research to support a legal procedure, drafting documents, or even formulating a defense or prosecution plan for court cases. A Paralegal's role is to help lawyers prepare for trials, hearings, and meetings, with more minor, everyday roles circulating the case material and lawyers they work alongside.  
  
Paralegals can specialize in different legal areas, from bankruptcy to criminal law. The role of a paralegal depends on the laws and regulations in their region. Paralegals are unlicensed in most places and cannot practice law or represent clients in courts or any legal procedures. However, some locations do allow Paralegals to practice law with certain restrictions in place.  
  
Roles & Responsibilities for a Paralegal 

• Assisting Lawyers in tasks involved in legal and administrative activities 
• Gathering and analyzing essential data (e.g., declarations, precedents, and applicable laws) for a case 
• Preparing affidavits and other legal documents for lawyers and clients 
• Drafting contracts, wills, and real estate closing statements 
• Maintaining all documents organized in electronic and paper filing systems 
• Maintaining and updating the office legal library 
• Directing and coordinating the activities of interns 
• Preparing supporting material for trials and courts 
• Investigating facts and precedents that are relevant to cases 
• Documenting and drafting reports based on evidence and past case analysis to provide lawyers with the necessary information for a case 
• Writing court briefs, pleadings, and appeals 
• Filing and submitting legal documents when necessary  
• Meeting with clients and lawyers to discuss the details of a case 
• Calling upon witnesses to testify in hearings 
• Transcribing declarations and testimonies that may be relevant 
• Representing clients in legal matters when permitted by provincial law 
• Providing legal advice and representation to clients in matters covered by their scope of practice 
• Staying updated with the latest passing bills, legislations, and laws