Florida Paralegal Certification Exam Test Questions
And Correct Answers (Verified Answers) Plus
Rationales 2025/2026 Q&A | Instant Download Pdf
1. What is the primary role of a paralegal?
To assist attorneys in legal research and preparation of documents.
Paralegals support lawyers by conducting research, drafting documents,
and managing case files, but they cannot provide legal advice or
represent clients.
2. Which Florida statute governs the unauthorized practice of law?
Florida Statutes Chapter 454.
Chapter 454 defines and prohibits the unauthorized practice of law to
protect the public and maintain the integrity of the legal profession.
3. What is attorney-client privilege?
A confidential communication between attorney and client protected
from disclosure.
This privilege ensures that clients can speak freely with their attorneys
without fear that the information will be revealed.
4. When must a paralegal disclose their status to clients?
At the first substantive communication with the client.
Transparency is required so clients understand who is assisting their
attorney.
,5. What is a "motion to dismiss"?
A request to the court to terminate a case for specific legal reasons.
It asks the court to dismiss a case, often due to lack of jurisdiction, failure
to state a claim, or other procedural issues.
6. In Florida, how long does a party have to respond to a civil complaint?
20 calendar days.
The Florida Rules of Civil Procedure require a defendant to respond within
20 days after service.
7. What is the purpose of discovery in litigation?
To obtain evidence from the opposing party before trial.
Discovery allows parties to gather facts and documents to prepare for
trial and avoid surprises.
8. What is a "deposition"?
An out-of-court sworn testimony of a witness.
Depositions are used to gather testimony under oath before trial and can
be used in court.
9. What does "pro bono" work mean?
Legal services provided free of charge.
Pro bono work helps ensure access to justice for those unable to pay.
10.Which court in Florida handles probate matters?
The Circuit Court.
Probate cases, including wills and estates, are within the jurisdiction of
the Circuit Courts in Florida.
, 11.What is the difference between a statute and a case law?
A statute is a law passed by legislature; case law is law developed by
court decisions.
Statutes are written laws, while case law is created by judges interpreting
statutes or legal principles.
12.What is the primary function of the Florida Bar?
To regulate attorneys and maintain legal standards.
The Florida Bar licenses lawyers and enforces ethical standards.
13.What is a "summary judgment"?
A court decision without a trial when no material facts are in dispute.
If the facts are clear, the court can decide the case as a matter of law.
14.What is a paralegal prohibited from doing?
Giving legal advice to clients.
Only licensed attorneys may provide legal advice.
15.How should a paralegal handle confidential client information?
Maintain strict confidentiality and secure storage.
Confidentiality is essential to protect client interests and maintain ethical
standards.
16.What is a "subpoena"?
A legal order requiring a person to appear or produce documents.
Subpoenas compel attendance or evidence in court proceedings.
17.When is a paralegal allowed to sign documents?
Only under attorney supervision and if permitted by law.
And Correct Answers (Verified Answers) Plus
Rationales 2025/2026 Q&A | Instant Download Pdf
1. What is the primary role of a paralegal?
To assist attorneys in legal research and preparation of documents.
Paralegals support lawyers by conducting research, drafting documents,
and managing case files, but they cannot provide legal advice or
represent clients.
2. Which Florida statute governs the unauthorized practice of law?
Florida Statutes Chapter 454.
Chapter 454 defines and prohibits the unauthorized practice of law to
protect the public and maintain the integrity of the legal profession.
3. What is attorney-client privilege?
A confidential communication between attorney and client protected
from disclosure.
This privilege ensures that clients can speak freely with their attorneys
without fear that the information will be revealed.
4. When must a paralegal disclose their status to clients?
At the first substantive communication with the client.
Transparency is required so clients understand who is assisting their
attorney.
,5. What is a "motion to dismiss"?
A request to the court to terminate a case for specific legal reasons.
It asks the court to dismiss a case, often due to lack of jurisdiction, failure
to state a claim, or other procedural issues.
6. In Florida, how long does a party have to respond to a civil complaint?
20 calendar days.
The Florida Rules of Civil Procedure require a defendant to respond within
20 days after service.
7. What is the purpose of discovery in litigation?
To obtain evidence from the opposing party before trial.
Discovery allows parties to gather facts and documents to prepare for
trial and avoid surprises.
8. What is a "deposition"?
An out-of-court sworn testimony of a witness.
Depositions are used to gather testimony under oath before trial and can
be used in court.
9. What does "pro bono" work mean?
Legal services provided free of charge.
Pro bono work helps ensure access to justice for those unable to pay.
10.Which court in Florida handles probate matters?
The Circuit Court.
Probate cases, including wills and estates, are within the jurisdiction of
the Circuit Courts in Florida.
, 11.What is the difference between a statute and a case law?
A statute is a law passed by legislature; case law is law developed by
court decisions.
Statutes are written laws, while case law is created by judges interpreting
statutes or legal principles.
12.What is the primary function of the Florida Bar?
To regulate attorneys and maintain legal standards.
The Florida Bar licenses lawyers and enforces ethical standards.
13.What is a "summary judgment"?
A court decision without a trial when no material facts are in dispute.
If the facts are clear, the court can decide the case as a matter of law.
14.What is a paralegal prohibited from doing?
Giving legal advice to clients.
Only licensed attorneys may provide legal advice.
15.How should a paralegal handle confidential client information?
Maintain strict confidentiality and secure storage.
Confidentiality is essential to protect client interests and maintain ethical
standards.
16.What is a "subpoena"?
A legal order requiring a person to appear or produce documents.
Subpoenas compel attendance or evidence in court proceedings.
17.When is a paralegal allowed to sign documents?
Only under attorney supervision and if permitted by law.
