Users' questions 

Can paralegals be independent contractors?

Leia Doyle

Can paralegals be independent contractors?

Freelance paralegals function as their own boss, working as independent contractors, providing paralegal services for a variety of clients. To be successful, they must have a solid understanding of how to run a business and the paperwork involved — beginning with the freelance paralegal agreement.

What is the difference between a freelance paralegal and an independent paralegal?

Freelance paralegals are also known as contract paralegals because they hire themselves out to attorneys on a contract basis. Freelance paralegals work with law firms and attorneys while independent paralegals provide their services directly to clients.

What are some advantages to allowing paralegals to work as independent contractors to lawyers?

There are several advantages for attorneys who hire virtual paralegals as independent contractors including:

  • Billing clients for the entire cost for the contract paralegal.
  • No overhead costs for an employee.
  • No downtime for training.
  • No taxes, benefits or insurance costs.

In what type of legal office do most paralegals work?

Work Environment Paralegals and legal assistants are found in all types of organizations, but most work for law firms, corporate legal departments, and government agencies. They usually work full time, and some may have to work more than 40 hours a week to meet deadlines.

What is the distinction between a traditional paralegal and an independent contractor?

A traditional paralegal is an employee of an attorney. An independent contractor has his or her own business. A traditional paralegal is considered an independent contractor who has his or her own business. An independent contractor is an employee of an attorney.

How do I market myself as a freelance paralegal?

Marketing Ideas for a Freelance Paralegal

  1. Prioritize a Professional Website.
  2. Join Local Networking Groups.
  3. Run an Educational Campaign About Document Preparation.
  4. Get in Touch with Independent Lawyers.
  5. Take Advantage of Video Marketing.
  6. Encourage Customers to Leave Reviews.
  7. Target Your Marketing to Your Customers.

What is the difference between a paralegal and a legal assistant?

Paralegals are more involved with the actual technicalities of the law, whereas legal assistants undertake broader tasks. If you are looking for a more hands-on law career, becoming a paralegal may interest you more.

What type of paralegals make the most money?

Here are the 30 highest paying paralegal jobs:

  1. Paralegal Manager. $104,775.
  2. Legal Project Manager. $87,375.
  3. Intellectual Property Paralegal. $86,800.
  4. Nurse Paralegal. $82,687.
  5. Employment and Labor Law Paralegal. $80,685.
  6. Government Paralegal. $78,478.
  7. Senior Paralegal. $69,995.
  8. Corporate Paralegal. $66,134.

Can paralegal prepare legal documents?

For example, paralegals can review and organize client files, conduct factual and legal research, prepare documents for legal transactions, draft pleadings and discovery notices, interview clients and witnesses, and assist at closings and trials. Paralegals must avoid the unauthorized practice of law.

Where do paralegals make the most money?

10 States Where Paralegals Earn the Most Money

  • Connecticut average paralegal salary: $62,760.
  • California average paralegal salary: $61,240.
  • Washington average paralegal salary: $60,940.
  • Massachusetts average paralegal salary: $60,320.
  • Alaska average paralegal salary: $59,140.
  • New York average paralegal salary: $58,750.

How do I market myself as a paralegal?

What are the duties of a paralegal assistant?

Duties

  • Investigate and gather the facts of a case.
  • Conduct research on relevant laws, regulations, and legal articles.
  • Organize and maintain documents in paper or electronic filing systems.
  • Gather and arrange evidence and other legal documents for attorney review and case preparation.