7 Best Tips for Making the Most of a Paralegal or Legal Assistant

A law firm is more than a collection of lawyers. Often, the staff keeps things running, handling case logistics, managing scheduling, and even researching and drafting. That is to say, your paralegals and legal assistants matter. A lot.

Here are FindLaw's seven best posts on how to get the best paralegals and legal assistants around and how to make the most of the support staff you already have.

1. Solo Practitioners: Do You Need a Paralegal?

The chances are, if you're a solo practitioner you're really solo, handling almost all your work on your own. But, even solo practitioners may be able to benefit from bringing on a paralegal or legal secretary.

2. How Much Does Hiring Legal Support Staff Cost?

If you are ready to bring in some help, you'll need to have some cash on hand. Legal support staff costs a pretty penny -- and the best staff costs even more. Not only is there salary to consider, but the costs of taxes, benefits, onboarding, and more.

3. 10 Things Every Attorney Must Do Before Hiring a Legal Secretary or Paralegal

These ten steps will help you find the best legal secretary or paralegal for your needs, while saving you some time and, hopefully, keeping you from hiring the wrong candidate.

4. 3 Ways to Save Money by Investing in Your Paralegal

Professional development can expand your support staffs' skills, allowing them to play bigger, and more valuable, roles in the firm.

5. 5 Tips for Working With a Virtual Paralegal

Can't fit another desk in your office? Don't have the need for a full-time paralegal? A virtual paralegal might be the answer.

6. 3 Ways You Can (And Can't) Split Costs with Fellow Attorneys

You share space with another solo practitioner or small firm. But can you share the cost of a paralegal or legal secretary?

7. Your Paralegal or Legal Assistant: What's in a Name?

Titles matter, so make sure you get your support staff's titles right.

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Related Resources:

• Have an open position at your law firm? Post the job for free on Indeed, or search local candidate resumes.
• 5 Ways to Make Sure Your Paralegals Are Paying Off (FindLaw's Strategist)
• Spring Cleaning Tips for Lawyers in the Digital Age (FindLaw's Strategist)
• Should Firms Hire Law Librarians or Knowledge Officers? (FindLaw's Strategist)