header-logo header-logo

17 September 2020 / Amanda Hamilton
Issue: 7909 / Categories: Opinion , Profession
printer mail-detail

The paralegal support act

27617
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

If you are not a subscriber, subscribe now to read this content
If you are already a subscriber sign in
...or Register for two weeks' free access to subscriber content

MOVERS & SHAKERS

Withers—Sophie Barrett-Brown

Withers—Sophie Barrett-Brown

Withers drives further growth in its UK immigration team with new partner Sophie Barrett-Brown

Venus Legal—Esther Amoako

Venus Legal—Esther Amoako

Venus Legal invests in next generation of legal talent as specialist litigation practice grows

Fisher Phillips—Catrina Smith

Fisher Phillips—Catrina Smith

Fisher Phillips continues momentum in London with arrival of Catrina Smith

NEWS
Defendants who make unsupported complaints about their lawyers risk losing legal aid while confiscation proceedings continue without representation
Lawyers advising Russian clients face different sanctions restrictions across the UK, EU and US, despite their shared objective of increasing pressure on Russia
Artificial intelligence does not demand a wholesale rewrite of liability law, argues an article challenging claims that new technology has created an accountability gap
Restrictions on workplace non-disclosure agreements could make settlements slower, more complex and more expensive when reforms expected in 2027 take effect
Private prosecutors face closer scrutiny under Crown Prosecution Service guidance designed to strengthen accountability and consistency when intervention is requested
back-to-top-scroll