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Recent hiring trends show an increase in the number of paralegals retained by large law firms, as more and more firms recognize the value of their paralegals' contributions. Paralegals are increasingly being delegated assignments in conducting basic background research and preparing legal documents, even helping to train new associates. Do you agree or disagree that this is becoming an increasing trend at top firms? Do you think that this is a cost effective move for the firm?
I have over 20 years experience and large firms with good paralegal programs experience an increased cost benefit from using paralegals. There are a few exceptions worth mentioning however. The billable rate for paralegals in litigation continues to rise alongside attorney billable rates. Interestingly, paralegal salaries have not kept up with that pace. The good news for firms is that paralegal billing remains profitable. The downside for some paralegals is that wages may be suppressed at certain firms and within certain geographies. For example, where there is a surplus of newly barred attorneys seeking employment, in areas such as Los Angeles, CA and Washington, DC for example, paralegal compensation may be high for only a small segment of paralegals due to the large number of licensed JDs willing to perform paralegal tasks. Using JDs instead of paralegals can also be profitable for law firms where JDs accept the paralegal salary but are billed at the higher JD rate.
Yes, I do agree.
I agree that this can be a cost affective move for most law firms. However, most major law firms have different office atmospheres, cultures and working procedures. As a result from these expanded assignments (and an added benefit) is that legal assistants must take advantage of the firm sponsored in-house training sessions and luncheons. This (expansion of delegated assignments) move can also benefit the legal assistants in expanding and creating more positions, resources and skills to the resume arsenal. Even if the compensation is lacking, the experience and skills added to your notoriety are priceless.