What Is a Paralegal Not Allowed to Do?

Have you ever considered becoming a paralegal? Are you interested in what paralegals do and how they help in the legal field but wonder what they cannot do? This is an essential question because understanding the limits of the job is equally as crucial as knowing the job’s responsibilities.

If you’re considering enrolling in a paralegal studies program, knowing these boundaries will help determine if this career is for you. Let me explain it in simple terms with clear examples to guide you.

1. Paralegals Cannot Give Legal Advice

One of the strictest regulations placed on paralegals is that they cannot provide legal advice. Only a licensed attorney can interpret laws and advise clients on which actions to take.

For example, a client may ask a paralegal, “What should I do in my divorce case?” The paralegal must refer that question to the lawyer. While it can be very tempting to want to help, giving legal advice without a license is illegal.

2. Paralegals Cannot Represent Clients in Court

As a paralegal, you will be tremendously prepared for legal cases but will not be allowed to stand up in court and represent clients. Only lawyers can do that.

For instance, a paralegal may spend weeks assembling evidence and drafting documents on a case. Although you are an integral legal team member, much of your effort supports the lawyer, who speaks to the judge and jury.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, more than 355,000 working paralegals or legal assistants in the United States in 2023, but none represented clients in the courtroom. Their work constitutes entirely behind-the-scenes support.

3. Paralegals Cannot Determine Legal Fees

There is also a limit for paralegals on money matters. They cannot determine and debate legal fees with the clients; this task is exclusively left to the attorney.

The fees are part of the legal agreement between the attorney and the client, and paralegals aren’t licensed to make those decisions. However, paralegals may assist by preparing billing records or explaining fee structures under the lawyer’s supervision.

4. Paralegals Do Not Sign Legal Documents. 

Although a paralegal may prepare contracts, court forms, or other vital records, they should not sign these documents on behalf of either the attorney or the client.

The way it goes is like this: Consider the work of a paralegal as constructing a house. The work involved in bringing the materials on site and laying the foundation is all done, but the lawyer would generally sign that this house was built to legal code.

5. Paralegals Cannot Establish Attorney-Client Relationships

Last but not least, paralegals cannot establish an attorney-client relationship. The formal relationship between an attorney and client exists once a client hires an attorney and accepts the terms of representation.

Although paralegals often Liaise with clients to obtain information or update them, they cannot and should not act as, or give the impression of being, the first point of contact for any client regarding legal advice or case-related decisions.

Why These Rules Matter 

These rules are not just there to curtail what a paralegal can do but to protect the integrity of the legal system. They will ensure that clients get the right advice from qualified professionals to avoid severe mistakes in legal cases.

Enroll Now at Northwest Career College

Ready to start your career as a paralegal? Now that you know what a paralegal can and can’t do, is your dream career within reach? It is at Northwest Career College. Our Paralegal Studies Program will provide the academic framework for the practice that every professional should be aware of when understanding the boundaries of the law in which they can operate under the supervision of a licensed attorney. Enroll now and become a part of the legal team. For more information, visit our website or contact us today. Your journey starts here!