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17 September 2020 / Amanda Hamilton
Issue: 7909 / Categories: Opinion , Profession
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The paralegal support act

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Struggling to clear the backlog after lockdown? How can paralegals help, asks Amanda Hamilton

In brief

  • Increased workload as a result of the virus and lockdown.
  • How can paralegals help?
  • How do you choose a paralegal?

When the remaining courts reopen after lockdown, law firms will be stepping up to assist clients with their legal issues.

Not only is there a massive backlog of cases that could not go through the courts while we were under lockdown restrictions, but there is also likely to be a rush of activity as people get on with matters they have been putting off for several months now. For example, those who have delayed house buying will now be pushing forward with their plans and people with small claims are likely to want to get their disputes resolved as soon as possible.

Increased workload

On top of that, there is likely to be an increase in some legal work as a direct result of the virus and lockdown. Tragically, obviously, there is

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NEWS
A wave of housing and procedural reforms is set to test the limits of tribunal capacity. In his latest Civil Way column for NLJ this week, Stephen Gold charts sweeping change as the Renters’ Rights Act 2025 begins biting
Plans to reduce jury trials risk missing the real problem in the criminal justice system. Writing in NLJ this week, David Wolchover of Ridgeway Chambers argues the crown court backlog is fuelled not by juries but weak cases slipping through a flawed ‘50%’ prosecution test
Emerging technologies may soon transform how courts determine truth in deeply personal disputes. In this week's NLJ, Madhavi Kabra of 1 Hare Court and Harry Lambert of Outer Temple Chambers explore how neurotechnology could reshape family law
A controversial protest case has reignited debate over the limits of free expression. In NLJ this week, Nicholas Dobson examines a Quran-burning incident testing public order law
The courts have drawn a firm line under attempts to extend arbitration appeals. Writing in NLJ this week, Masood Ahmed of the University of Leicester highlights that if the High Court refuses permission under s 68 of the Arbitration Act 1996, that is the end
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