Question #3. Describe the functions of the members of the legal team.
The lawyer is the lead in the legal team and has passed the bar examination and have a license to practice law in their respective state(s). In larger firms, the lawyers can be assigned as partners and associates. The partner has actual ownership in the firm whereas the associate are usually on salary as an employee, not being an owner in the firm. The supervising attorney in a large firm is responsible for the actions and work of the lawyers under him/her. The paralegal is responsible for the litigation process. Some of the responsibilities of the paralegal are preparing casework, investigations, preparing briefings, conducting interviews and scheduling and maintaining client contacts. The support staff are those individuals within the firm that work collectively to accomplish assignments. Investigators are those that conduct the research and gather facts regarding the case to validate or find fault in legal issues of the case. The information technologists (IT) individuals are those who maintain the software and hardware in the firm and keep the necessary equipment operational.
Question #4. Why do lawyers in civil litigation rely upon the members of a legal team?
Lawyers rely on the members of the team because of the amount of work that has to be accomplished to prepare a case. Law firms have assigned duties and responsibilities for these members and they work collectively to accomplish their goals.
Question #5. What are the skills required of the civil litigation paralegal?
The skills necessary for the paralegal include having people and communication skills, being resourceful, being committed, having analytical abilities, and being professional. The paralegal is expected to be a well-rounded professional influence in the firm.
Question #6. What are the tasks the civil litigation paralegal can expect to perform?
The paralegal can expect