The legal field consists of a vast network of jobs, each with their own responsibilities and duties, but none of them any less important than the other. The demand for these jobs has been growing dramatically in the last decade, causing a greater need for information on the types of positions available in the legal profession. Many of them are preferred by or better suited to law students and recent graduates, and can help them pave the way for a rewarding and financially secure career in the finance sector or automotive industry as well as law itself.. Updates to changes in Australia law can be found here
Legal Courier
Legal couriers are usually self employed. They must be responsible and trustworthy, be on call at a moment’s notice and possess their own reliable transportation – a reliable new car or other motor vehicle. Furthermore, they are expected to work on a tight schedule. Their job duties consist of serving legal papers and lawsuits, transporting and delivering papers to be signed and returned, and filing paperwork with courts. Driving your vehicle as a legal courier can be a demanding job, but also a financially rewarding one. Since lawyers and courts are constantly extremely busy, many of them will pay outside help very nicely to have their work done in a timely manner.
Judicial Assistant
Many students who are still in law school may start out here. Like the job of a legal courier, the job of a judicial assistant can be very demanding. They are required to perform research and analysis, finding legal documents to verify facts and case law to assist lawyers and judges. At times, they might be required to act as a bailiff or a court clerk during hearings. They also have responsibilities that overlap with or are similar to those of a legal courier such as transporting documents in cars. They prepare files and deliver legal documents, petitions, pleadings and subpoenas to courts, lawyers, and witnesses. In real estate law, they are responsible for preparing a closing statement. This position is usually temporary, lasting only about 6 months, but may be extended by permission of the court or law school.
Paralegal
Paralegals act as assistants to lawyers. If a person has ever been to see a lawyer, chances are good that the paralegal was the first person that they met. A paralegal will typically interview clients to gather information and periodically inform them on the status of their case. Other responsibilities include corresponding with clients and counsel, performing research of laws, drafting documents and pleadings and organizing and maintaining files. Paralegals can also help with things like setting up life insurance policies, novated lease agreements and other financial/legal documents.