Necessary Skills for Paralegals
by Laura Alfano
1. Soft Skills
1.1. Dealing with Clients
1.2. Attorney Tantrums
1.3. Emotionally Charged Situations
1.4. Teamwork Skills
1.5. Open-mindedness
1.6. Pleasant Demeanor
2. Analytical Skills
2.1. Thinking Critically
2.2. Identifying with Client
2.3. Reviewing Records
2.4. Performing Investigations
2.5. Integrating of the Law with Facts
2.6. Thinking Through Emotionality (Self)
3. Organizational Skills
3.1. Time Management
3.2. Priortization
3.3. "Could You Die?" Standard
3.4. File Management
3.5. Calendaring/Tickles
4. Communication Skills
4.1. Communicating Orally
4.2. Communicating in Writing
4.3. Communicating Nonverbally
4.4. Maintaining Confidentiality
4.5. Conducting Interviews
5. Computer Skills
5.1. Standard Software
5.2. Legal Specialty Software
5.3. Internet Skills
6. Professionalism Skills
6.1. Taking Initiative
6.2. Demonstrating Good Work Ethic
6.3. Working Without Supervision
6.4. Following Ethical Rules
6.5. Showing Dedication
6.6. Following Directions
6.7. Adhering to Deadlines
6.8. Following Office Protocol
6.9. Paying Attention to Detail
7. KEY-Click This Icon First
8. Research Skills
8.1. Performing Legal Research
8.1.1. Book Research
8.1.2. Electronic Database Research