As technology progresses, so does our fear of being replaced by artificial intelligence (A.I.).  A.I. has already made its presence known in the legal field igniting worry about our job security.  The topic of Attorneys and paralegals v. Artificial Intelligence is hitting the headlines with ever-increasing presence. 

Even with the new wave of A.I. pouring into the legal industry, it does not necessarily mean that paralegals will ever become obsolete. While A.I. is by some, portrayed as an enemy, it also brings something of value to the legal field.  

There may be some firms that eliminate receptionist roles to cut down on costs. A paralegal serves a more substantial purpose and is likely to maintain employment. New advances in technology such as automation and A.I., can turn a month-long task that would typically require multiple attorneys and paralegals to sort through into a more efficient mode of productivity. A.I. could be a friend rather than a foe of paralegals. 

Comparing Apples to Oranges 

There is a common misconception between A.I. and regular computer automation, and the two terms are commonly used interchangeably. While the two may share a few similarities, they are quite different. A.I. consists of advanced computing algorithms that aim to simulate thought patterns of humans, ultimately to make autonomous decisions. Conversely, automation is software designed to follow a set of pre-programmed rules or commands, which is really, all software ever has been since the first computer program was written.

The distinction between Artificial Intelligence and Automation 

Automation is already omnipresent and works to expedites several administrative tasks and automate filing systems. It is appealing to most firms because it is cost-effective and efficient. In a law firm, it is typically used to organizes emails, produce legal documents, regulate billing, and much more.

Automation allows more time for paralegals and attorneys to dedicate time to more advanced legal work. Automation provides a legal team the freedom to meet face-to-face with clients and ensure more client interaction that is sure to boost client satisfaction.

So, automation offers a single purpose: the software performs the mundane, repetitious tasks. 

While automation may seem like A.I., it is not. The critical difference is that automation is embedded with manual configuration. It establishes workflows and formulas. It is software that can follow orders. This may somewhat put some jobs in jeopardy because it can quickly perform tasks faster than a human, and it is at times more reliable. For example, if an employee calls in sick, the automation software can continue the processes it is programmed to do without missing a beat. 

Paralegals always desire to work smarter and not harder. Automation through the use of legal practice management software can turn the average paralegal into the new and improved “Paralegal v2.0.” It expedites several administrative tasks and automates filing systems. Many law firms have already implemented a web chat feature on their websites. That addresses the routine questions and offers a quick response instead of the calls that may flood in to ask repetitive questions and eliminates phone interruptions overall. 

Interruptions can be disastrous and end up costing a law firm several thousand dollars per year. A Professor from UC Irvine presented research findings that it takes an average of twenty-three minutes for an employee to refer back to a task after an interruption. There will always be interruptions in the workplace, especially for a paralegal who multi-task on a daily basis. 

Paralegals often are the main point of contact for clients; they draft and edit legal documents, complete administrative tasks, and run errands as needed. The shorter answer to what does a paralegal do is what doesn’t a paralegal do.  Studies show that with each interruption, it takes on average twenty-three minutes to get back on task. For example, if there are ten interruptions a day, that could result in almost four hours of lost time a day out of an average eight-hour workday.

After all the math, that equals one thousand forty wasted hours per year. Therefore, it is incredibly beneficial and cost-effective to eliminate as many interruptions as possible.

Automation paired with A.I. allows paralegals to reduce interruptions and delegate tasks to learned A.I. which can brush through “interruptions” like no other. 

iParalegal – Artificial Intelligence 

A.I. is the technology that is designed to mimic what a human may think, say, or do. Unlike automation, which follows a strict predefined set of rules and orders, A.I. is constructed to learn from experiences and seek patterns and form the ability to enact the proper response. Like humans, they learn by repetition what the appropriate response is and is not. 

A.I. is extremely intimidating because it is basically a replica of you or me. No need to fret, just like us humans, A.I. has its myriad of flaws. While it is not restricted by rules, it accelerates its ability to learn quickly, but it is doing so without context. It has been compared to teaching a baby to do a paralegals job, which is quite cute, but not practical. 

The ABA published an article in 2017, introducing a paralegal robot that reviews patent documents. The company which developed the robot implemented A.I. to generate patent claims. The report produces a marked-up word document to address potential errors or concerns.

However, this does not mean it is a “paralegal or attorney replacement.” James Billmaier, the chief executive officer of the software, states, “[w]hat artificial technology is doing to a lot of repeatable functions, we’re just applying to a very large vertical. The attorney is still fundamental at working with the inventor and grabbing the idea.

The machine is better at creating and protecting the application.” He believes that A.I. is an impending need for law firms within the next five years, or they will appear “way behind the curve.” 

Other adoptions of A.I. in legal technology include using A.I. to automate the process of document review, the analysis of legal contracts and to perform due diligence checks in contract review, for example, electronic discovery and other areas of legal research.

Human Paralegal vs. Paralegal Bot

The legal profession has and always will be client-driven and an immensely sensitive area. A.I. cannot replace compassion and genuine communication. Most people seek attorneys in times of stressful circumstances. In such personal matters, a paralegal or legal assistant, or attorney communication is necessary. If a client is calling about a murder charge or a divorced issue – human interaction is essential.

There are some non-threatening ways A.I. can effectively assist in client interaction. For example, if you have a Spanish speaking client and you speak English, right off the bat, there is a troublesome language barrier. However, with A.I. chat software, what the potential client types in Spanish can be translated and received by you in English and vice-versa.

This mode of A.I. produces real-time interaction and expands your clientele. This example illustrates that in some situations, it is a more practical conduit to have A.I. in, and it is a conversation that is not ruled out from a lack of fluency. 

Paralegal Advancement 

The use of new technology can place a paralegal in a better-suited position for career advancement. Paralegals become readily available to conduct more advanced research, meet with clients, and interact more closely with attorneys and assist with case strategy. It is not too uncommon for an attorney to bring a paralegal to court because the paralegal has spent hours on the case and is familiar with the specific facts. This provides an attorney with an additional resource to utilize in court. 

The more time a paralegal has to focus on law-related issues, the more likely they are to advance and refine their legal skillset. It opens the door to a higher salary and overall career advancement. It will also increase client satisfaction if the paralegal or any member of the legal staff is readily available to address their needs expeditiously. 

Match Made in Heaven?

Automation and A.I. seem to complement each other. While automation software collects data, A.I. is designed to understand it through machine learning. According to an article published by Interesting Engineering, ” A.I. applications which are developed by using data make similar inferences by looking at the millions of cases in the past while giving a higher performance compared to the success of a group of human lawyers.” A.I. enables paralegals and attorneys to regain lost time.

Some ethical dilemmas are surrounding the implementation of A.I. in the legal industry. The concerns are if A.I. would have the ability to ‘think’ subjectively like humans. If not, it could open the door to prejudices and lead to wrong suggestions and incorrect decisions. A.I. is not yet able to ascertain social conflicts. 

Collaboration 

Humans and A.I. can collaborate instead of competing against each other to have a more desirable outcome for all parties involved. As legal software for paralegals changes, we must learn to adapt. Paralegals are accustomed to adapting to constant changes within the industry. A.I. will allow paralegals to become more cultivated and grow their knowledge of the law and its many processes. 

A.I. cannot replace face-to-face contact, and a robot cannot argue a case in front of a robot judge. A.I. opens the door to career advancement and new possibilities to become experts in A.I. and managing the processes.  The key is to adapt and embrace the change A.I. brings into the legal industry.  Become an expert on both automation and A.I. and educate yourself on how the adoption of both automation, A.I. and certain A.I. technologies could not only benefit you but your firm as well. 

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The “S” word in the Paralegal Profession

It’s not all about the money, right? But it helps. Paralegals assume a variety of roles in the workplace, and many do the jobs of three or more people. In this article, we take a look at paralegal salaries by state in 2019, and the influential factors behind the figures. It is interesting how your geographic location can make a substantial difference concerning your salary. The national average annual salary for a professional paralegal is $50,940.00

The good news is that the paralegal profession is projected to skyrocket 15% by 2026.  The statistics provided by the United States Bureau of Labor show the paralegal and legal assistant jobs are going to be in high demand simply because the legal field is highly dependent on paralegal and legal assistant support. The demand, however, can vary from state to state depending on the market and population growth. The below data has been calculated by salary expectations and the statistics from the most recent survey from the Bureau of Labor.

Top 5 States with the Highest Paralegal Salaries

Connecticut
“Still Revolutionary, Full of Surprises”

For such a small state, Connecticut has the highest average salary across the United States. The average salary for a paralegal in Connecticut is $62,760.00. The market is rich in this State because it is packed with large companies such as Charter Communications, Cigna, Hartford Insurance Company. Large companies need legal support for various tasks related to underwriting, compliance, and pending litigation. There are almost five thousand employed paralegals in the state.

California
“Dream Big, Eureka! The Golden State”

California is the land of opportunity, and you just may find a gold nugget if you are looking for a job as a paralegal or legal assistant in this state. The average salary is $61,240 statewide. The legal field has grown substantially over the last few years and looks as though it has no intention of stopping.

Los Angeles is forever in demand for attorneys to assist future starlets and provide for the sophisticated real estate market. Disney Land, where dreams come true, is also in California and employs many paralegals. Currently, there are over thirty thousand legal professionals employed statewide. So put on your shades, California’s future seems bright!

Washington
“The State, Say WA! Experience Washington, The Evergreen State”

Washington is the state to keep an eye on if you’re looking to secure a healthy salary. The average salary for a paralegal in this state is $60,940.00. This appears to just be the beginning for Washington as large companies like Starbucks, Amazon, Boeing are constantly in need of legal professionals. Washington has massive potential for growth and looks to provide a sense of real job security. Another bonus is that Washington does not deduct personal income tax. That leaves room for a caramel macchiato from Starbucks!

Massachusetts
“It’s All Here, Make It Yours; The Spirit of America”

Massachusetts holds some of the most prestigious and affluent firms in the nation. The average salary for paralegals in this state is $60,320.00. This state currently employees nearly eight thousand paralegals. Large corporations are also affiliated with Boston putting in-house counsel in demand. Massachusetts also has a rich history and many people who visit end up falling in love with its beautiful beaches and cozy charm. This state is ideal for a paralegal looking to grow his or her career while enjoying the Bay State.

Alaska
“Find Your Alaska, Beyond Your Dreams, Within Your Reach, The Last Frontier”

Alaska is known as the last frontier, but it can easily become the new frontier for aspiring paralegals to venture to and become part of this state’s booming market. The average salary for a paralegal in this state is $59,140.00. Alaska has plenty of remote areas, and there are only a little over five hundred paralegals currently employed in the state. The state has large law firms that are always in need of legal support, and Alaska is a prime location that can offer you peace of mind, beauty, and independence. It may seem scary because of the cold and unknown, but you may be surprised, there is plenty of room for growth in Alaska to boost your education and explore the land unknown. (link in here or in Mass. http://www.opportunitydiary.com/ )?

Factors that Determine Salary in any Location

Education & Specialization

Paralegals usually hold an associate degree or certificate, while others hold a baccalaureate or master’s degree. However, attorneys like to hire paralegals that specialize in a particular area of the law such as criminal law, bankruptcy, personal injury, and immigration law. Over the past decade, the demand for a bilingual paralegal or legal assistant has been on the rise and will almost always guarantee a boost in salary.

IT and software skills are also valuable. A paralegal or legal assistant that is familiar with the latest software can help implement electronic discovery. E-Discovery is the process of procuring information from electronic sources such as emails, databases, and websites.

Experience

As with any profession, the more experience you have under your belt, the more earning potential you have. For example, an entry-level paralegal can expect to start on an hourly basis. Many paralegals get their foot in the door at law firms by first working as a receptionist or assistant.

Once a paralegal moves out of that entry-level role, he or she is likely to be placed on salary. Paralegals with roughly four to six years of experience earn an average of $46,750.00-78,750.00. This again varies on if you are employed in a smaller law firm with only two attorneys or a large corporate setting with hundreds of attorneys.

Typically, smaller firms are not able to pay as much as the larger firms, typically smaller firms are only able to pay below the average. Paralegals in a senior role where he or she supervises other paralegals earn an average salary of about $53,000 to $101,500 annually.

In closing, several factors can influence a paralegal’s salary. While the geographic location is one, education, specialties, and other economic factors should be considered. The state with the highest average certainly predisposes you to success in that state, but it is not automatic. Other expectations must be met to earn a high salary. Paralegals work hard across the nation to earn their salaries and are very deserving.

Now let’s take a look at all the paralegal salaries by state, for 2019.

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Paralegals play a critical role in the legal field as they ensure not only that the firm runs smoothly, but that the attorneys are well prepared and up to speed on their cases. Paralegals are an attorney’s right-hand person. They work as a team to build a case to best benefit the client. Believe it or not, the more work an attorney assigns to you, the more he or she trusts in your abilities and skill set to perform the work and do an outstanding job. 

Also, when a paralegal takes on part of the attorney’s workload, the attorney can focus on other important aspects of the case. This also saves the clients’ money because a paralegal’s hourly rate is not as costly as the attorneys.

Great paralegals stay on top of new legislation

Since paralegals play such a key role in the legal field, it is important they acquire a progressive understanding of the legal system. A good paralegal knows the general laws and does the work assigned. However, great paralegals stay on top of new legislation and perform research that could be a gamechanger in a case. 

There are numerous paralegal programs from certificates to ABA (American Bar Association) approved Associate Degrees where you can obtain your Associates in Paralegal Studies[1].

What a paralegal is NOT

Simply put, a paralegal is not an attorney, however, we will touch on that more below. A paralegal is not a legal assistant or legal secretary. The difference between the two is that a paralegal has either a certificate or associate degree providing them with the title of a paralegal whereas legal secretaries or assistants do not. Nor is a paralegal a court reporter. A paralegal does not go to court with the sole purpose of transcribing the hearings or trials.

What skills make for a successful paralegal?

A successful paralegal is a driven paralegal. To excel in the paralegal profession, one must remain hungry to learn and evolve. The legal field is forever changing, and a great paralegal is always one step ahead. A successful paralegal also learns to cope with stress and keep pushing forward. A successful paralegal possesses a wealth of knowledge as it relates to the legal field and is an effective researcher. While most may believe that anyone can “research” by typing it into Google, that is not the case with legal research. Platforms like LexisNexis and Westlaw require specific keywords, connectors, and search terms to ensure the most accurate and on-point results.

What is it like to be a paralegal?

Being a paralegal is a very rewarding profession. However, like with any career, there are some drawbacks. For example, the job is demanding, long hours, stressful, and high pressure. The good does outweigh the “bad” of the profession. As a paralegal, you are the go-to person in the firm for anything and everything. Not only do the clients trust and respect you, but the attorneys do too.  See our guide to the best and worst aspects of being a paralegal for further information on the highs and the lows.

What is the difference between a lawyer and a paralegal?

One of the major differences between lawyers and paralegals is their education and licensing. To be an attorney you must attend law school and obtain a Juris Doctorate Degree (JD). Many states, however, require a potential attorney to have a bachelor’s degree before they can enroll in a JD program. Furthermore, if one chooses to attend an American Bar Association (ABA) accredited law school, they will also need to take the LSAT (Law School Admission Test), which will determine one’s eligibility to enroll in certain of their preferred law schools.

Future lawyers also undergo a rigorous background back by whichever state he or she plans to practice in to ensure his or her competence, fitness, and character.

So, first a potential lawyer must go through law school and earn their JD, but before they officially become a lawyer, they must pass the dreaded BAR EXAM. It is said to be one of the most grueling and difficult professional examinations. If one passes the bar, they are sworn in and licensed to practice in that State. They also endure annual occupational license fees, malpractice insurance coverage, and other state-specific fee requirements.  Lawyers can give legal advice, represent clients in legal proceedings, and perform activities associated with the practice of law.

Conversely, a paralegal’s education is obtained by a certificate or an associate degree specializing in paralegal studies. While formally the education is required to earn the title of paralegal, some attorneys hire and give the title paralegal without the education. However, a formal education holding a certificate or specialized degree is the candidate that is more usually more likely to get hired.

A paralegal cannot give legal advice

A paralegal can draft correspondence, motions, complaints, discovery, and much more, but under the supervision of an attorney. Paralegals wear many hats. For example, in addition to their legal duties, they also manage the daily operations of a firm like organizing files, scheduling meetings, and interacting with clients. Paralegals sometimes have the opportunity to attend a mediation, deposition, hearing, or trial with an attorney.

One major distinction between a lawyer and a paralegal is that a paralegal cannot give legal advice and cannot prepare legal documents of which have not been approved or signed off on by an attorney.  Furthermore, paralegals are not able to provide potential clients or clients advice on the law or any legal procedures. They can in no way, shape, or form represent the client in any way.

What’s the career route from paralegal to a lawyer?

After working in a firm for several years, many paralegals choose to go to law school and become a lawyer themselves. Again, most U.S. states require that before one can enroll in a JD program, a bachelor’s degree must be obtained. Also, every ABA-approved school requires potential students to take the LSAT although some law schools are not ABA-approved and may not require the LSAT. A non-ABA approved school still allows one to practice in the State where they take the bar, but there are some restrictions as to reciprocity and potentially practicing in other States.

Most paralegals have a leg up in law school simply because they have the practical experience that many law students do not have. With that said, law school is still a BEAST and is a challenge for every single law student.

What’s the difference between paralegals and legal assistants?

Many people believe that paralegals and legal assistants have similar jobs, but there are some noteworthy differences. Education for a paralegal varies from a certificate to a college degree. Legal assistants do not need any further education past high school. Another distinction is that legal assistants perform more administrative tasks such as handling intake calls and directing them to the proper paralegal or attorney, taking messages, and performing general intake.

The salary of a paralegal and legal assistant is also different. Paralegals tend to earn more than a legal assistant and have a better opportunity for career advancement. However, legal assistants do take on the roles of a paralegal, as they absorb more knowledge, can begin to conduct research and draft correspondence. Sometimes the only difference is the title.

Can a paralegal give legal advice?

NO! One of the most IMPORTANT differences between a lawyer and a paralegal is that A PARALEGAL CANNOT GIVE LEGAL ADVICE! This rule is established by the ABA and other state and federal laws. This rule has proven to be challenging as the very definition of “legal advice” is gray and somewhat ambiguous because every essential part of a paralegal’s job deals with interpreting and communicating legal strategy.

What is considered legal advice? It can be as innocent as saying, “This case looks like a home run!” So, paralegals must be cautious when communicating with not only clients but potential clients as well. When in doubt, it is best to say, “I am sorry, but as a paralegal, I am not authorized to give legal advice.” Simply put, legal advice can be considered as to whatever the client perceives as legal advice. It may be awkward, and the client may be upset, but it is better for all parties to protect each other’s best interest.

A paralegal may be in the clear if they provide basic factual information about the case or the state/federal court. This can include filing deadlines or the process when filing a case, so the client is aware of the various procedures. Remember, this does not extend to relaying outcomes or expressing your opinion as to the merits of the case.

The lawyer is responsible

Punishment for this ethical rule is not just a slap on the wrist. While warnings may be provided, it could result in stiff fines or disbarment for the responsible attorney. This is because paralegals are not admitted to the bar and the reprimand(s) transfers the responsible attorney or the firm the paralegal worked under when the violation occurred.

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Let’s start with the Top 5 Best things about being a paralegal:

1. High Demand

The paralegal profession is more in demand now than ever. It is projected to grow an additional 15 percent from 2016 to 2026. ¹  This is substantial because this increase exceeds the average for all other occupations. It’s worth mentioning that paralegals with formal training, including an Associates in Paralegal Studies or Paralegal Certificate are in higher demand. There are a wide variety of options for schooling that fit around a busy lifestyle, including programs with night classes, and programs that are completely online.

The paralegals and legal assistants that exhibit strong computer and database skills, along with a strong work ethic will typically be the best candidates. So, with the increase in demand, there is no better time than now to enroll in a paralegal program to obtain an associate’s degree or a paralegal certificate.  It is also not uncommon that while one is enrolled in a paralegal program to hold a job as a legal assistant to gain practical real-world experience.

2. Making a Difference

Being a paralegal has proven to be a rewarding career. It provides an opportunity to help a person in their time of need. Depending on the area of law your firm specializes in, you could be helping a client who just lost their job, assisting a client through a trying divorce, or consoling a client who lost a loved one while working to recover their losses.

The feeling of helping someone in their darkest times is one that cannot be replaced. A career as a paralegal allows you to make a difference in someone’s life, and that is irreplaceable.

3. A Diverse Work Environment

One of the most unique aspects of being a paralegal or legal secretary is that no day will be the same. There is always a new task, a new client, or new research to be conducted.  As a paralegal your duties will vary from contacting witnesses, preparing for trials or depositions, even gearing up to go to trial yourself to assist the attorneys.

One of the most exciting things about being a paralegal is your limitless ability to learn. Being a paralegal means that you are a jack of all trades.  Attorneys will call on you for ANYTHING AND EVERYTHING (trust me). So, go to work each day with an open mind, and a willingness to learn, and you will be a top-notch, in-demand, paralegal in no time.

4. Room for Growth

As a paralegal, the opportunities are endless. You can excel at a private law firm, work within the U. S. Department of Justice, or for variety of well-known companies (even Disney World). There are numerous opportunities for paralegals at any experience level. The average salary across the country is about $50,000.00, in addition to some pretty bonus opportunities. Additionally, you could take your legal expertise to law school (move over Elle Woods!). You will find that you have a leg up on the other students simply because you have been a practicing paralegal.

5. Paralegal Prestige

You read that right, own it, you’ve earned it. All the hardworking paralegals out there would agree that you earn respect in the legal community. Paralegals are often referred to as a “wizard” or “magician.” Honestly, many paralegals live up to those nicknames, because they work tirelessly to make a difference in the legal field.  There is an unspoken code amongst all paralegals, we respect each other, and we support each other.

Uh oh, here at the top 5 WORST things about being a Paralegal:

1. STRESS

I know what you may be thinking, what job does not have stress? Well, let me and the army of paralegals tell you that the stress in this industry is extreme, and you are slapped in the face with a tremendous amount of pressure. You are constantly testing the limits of your sanity. You have strict deadlines to meet, angry clients, and oftentimes the first one to the office and the last one to leave. It can seem overwhelming at first, but you eventually find ways to cope with the stress.

2. Unappreciated

Do not expect frequent praise and recognition in this field. While that may sound harsh, it is the bitter reality that comes with the territory. I am not saying it is like that everywhere, but I’d be willing to bet over 80 percent would agree that they feel unappreciated. You will have clients, attorneys, and judges yell at you at some point in time, but you develop a thick skin, and quick! One of my favorite sayings among my fellow paralegals is “behind every successful attorney is an exhausted paralegal.”

I will tell you this, there are times when the attorney truly recognizes your hard work, and they realize that they absolutely COULD NOT do the job without you. Just remember that the job is so fast-paced that things are easily lost in translation.

3. The Bearer of Bad News

Yep, this also comes with the territory. Many times, you will be the one calling a client to break the bad news. Whether it be telling them the firm cannot take on their case, calling to collect on past overdue invoices, or informing them of an unfavorable ruling on their case. That’s right, you are the punching bag. However, you realize after a while, that they are not upset with you personally, just the situation. It is your job to remind them that you are on their side and will continue to work diligently on their behalf.  Like my old boss used to tell me, “take it with a grain of salt and move on!”

4. The Never-ending Learning Curve

Usually, you will be thrown into a case knowing nothing about it. You must become a speed reader and learn to find the core issues in any given case. You will often oversee numerous cases where you are expected to know the details of the case inside and out. The legal field is ALWAYS changing, and you must evolve with it. You will be forced outside your comfort zone with new motions and letters to draft, new case law to research, and having to manage the office all in one day. As a paralegal, the learning curve will always be steep.

5. DEMANDING

Notice here I said demanding, not in “high demand” as one of the best things about being a paralegal. If you are still reading, you will understand how unforgiving this industry can be. You will work more than forty hours a week, so kiss the idea of a nine to five job goodbye. However, to be a great paralegal and to rise above the rest, that is what it takes. You will be overwhelmed 99.9 percent of the time.

In closing, just like with any career, there are pros and cons. While there are great things about being a paralegal, there are also some not so great things involved. It does, however, transform you into a respectable professional that will demand attention. Becoming a paralegal is worthwhile because the good outweighs the bad. You also become selfless because, at the end of the day, it is about the client and making a positive impact on their case.

Stay tuned for more articles on the life of paralegal! Comment your craziest paralegal story! Also, feel free to comment on what topic you’d like to see next!

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