PAR1501
Assignment 1
Semester 2
2025
, Introduction to paralegal practice
Assessment One
Second semester
Question One
Define paralegal and list five characteristics of a paralegal.
A paralegal is a person who has legal knowledge and skills, but is not a qualified
attorney, and who assists lawyers, law firms, companies, or communities with legal work
under the supervision of a qualified legal practitioner. Paralegals help to improve access
to justice by providing legal information, advice, and support, especially to people who
cannot easily access formal legal services.
Five characteristics of a paralegal are:
1. Knowledgeable – Has basic knowledge of the law, legal processes, and
community issues.
2. Good communicator – Can explain legal rights and processes clearly to clients
in simple language.
3. Ethical and trustworthy – Maintains confidentiality and acts with honesty and
integrity.
4. Problem-solver – Helps clients find solutions to legal and community problems.
5. Community-oriented – Works to serve and empower the community by
promoting justice and human rights.
Question Two
List ways that paralegals can use to obtain the legal knowledge and skills needed
to carry out their work. (3)
1. Formal training and education – Studying through paralegal courses,
workshops, or university/college programs.
Assignment 1
Semester 2
2025
, Introduction to paralegal practice
Assessment One
Second semester
Question One
Define paralegal and list five characteristics of a paralegal.
A paralegal is a person who has legal knowledge and skills, but is not a qualified
attorney, and who assists lawyers, law firms, companies, or communities with legal work
under the supervision of a qualified legal practitioner. Paralegals help to improve access
to justice by providing legal information, advice, and support, especially to people who
cannot easily access formal legal services.
Five characteristics of a paralegal are:
1. Knowledgeable – Has basic knowledge of the law, legal processes, and
community issues.
2. Good communicator – Can explain legal rights and processes clearly to clients
in simple language.
3. Ethical and trustworthy – Maintains confidentiality and acts with honesty and
integrity.
4. Problem-solver – Helps clients find solutions to legal and community problems.
5. Community-oriented – Works to serve and empower the community by
promoting justice and human rights.
Question Two
List ways that paralegals can use to obtain the legal knowledge and skills needed
to carry out their work. (3)
1. Formal training and education – Studying through paralegal courses,
workshops, or university/college programs.
