The paralegal in this specialty must understand the laws on the formation of corporations and other business enterprises and how they operate under the law. Much of the work is preparing and filing documents necessary for the formation and operation of businesses. There may be a little client contact. Much of the time is spent drafting bond issues and stock certificates following the many applicable state and federal regulations. When working for an attorney with a family law practice, the paralegal may deal directly with clients in guardianship matters, dissolutions, custody, paternity disputes, dependency proceedings, support enforcement and abuse in the home, among other matters.
Adoptions are the most pleasant part of family law.
Gathering facts, drafting documents, investigation and trial preparation are some of the tasks involved. In criminal law, the attorney is defending a client accused of a crime so the paralegal should know criminal law and the importance of defenses. The paralegal might be dealing with the client, who is allegedly a criminal, and must feel comfortable with this. Here, the paralegal will draft documents in connection with the bankruptcy of the client and the defense of those involved. It requires a knowledge of the Bankruptcy Act and procedures to be followed.