Administrative and legal secretarial tasks, as well as research and providing legal information to clients, can all be performed by a paralegal. The precise duties of the role would be determined by the individual’s level of responsibility. Preparing legal documents is a common task for junior paralegals.

Unfortunately, no. In a courtroom, only lawyers can represent their clients. Only the attorney can sign papers that go in the court file or speak on behalf of a client. Paralegals can however prepare motions, trial exhibits, and sit with the attorney in court. To do otherwise is a criminal offence of unlicensed legal practice.

You should go to a paralegal before going to a lawyer. A paralegal is a more cost effective option, especially when you are not really sure whether you really need a lawyer.