Real estate paralegals assist attorneys in real estate law by preparing legal documents, researching laws, and assisting in legal proceedings. They usually hold an associate’s or bachelor’s degree and work under the supervision of a licensed attorney. They cannot provide legal advice or represent clients in court, but their work is charged at a lower hourly rate, making them an effective way to provide high-quality legal services at a lower cost. They can work in private law firms, real estate agencies, and title companies.
A real estate paralegal assists an attorney who practices in the field of real estate law. This area of law involves the right to own, use and enjoy land and permanent human-made attachments. She assists her supervising attorney by assisting with legal proceedings, preparing legal documents, and researching applicable local, state, and federal laws.
Real estate paralegals are usually graduates of paralegal studies and may or may not be certified. They usually hold an associate’s or bachelor’s degree, although some gain training through on-the-job experience. They can seek certification through various paralegal organizations and can choose to be tested in real estate, civil proceedings and contracts, in addition to general legal principles. Certification in these areas is often helpful for a paralegal with an interest in real estate law.
Real estate paralegals are usually required to work under the supervision of a licensed attorney. The legal work she does is substantive, meaning that in their absence it would be performed by a licensed attorney. Substantial legal work may be required of a client.
As with all paralegals, the work of a real estate paralegal must be supervised by an attorney. They cannot provide legal advice, represent clients in court, accept a case or set legal fees. Even so, there are many ways in which a person in this position can be utilized by a lawyer. She will often be involved in an entire real estate transaction, from initiating contracts to closing the deal. They frequently draft and help prepare documents related to real estate law, such as purchase agreements, contracts, leases, and deeds.
Utilizing the services of a real estate paralegal is generally considered good practice for several reasons. A paralegal performs substantial legal duties under the supervision of an attorney, but their work is generally charged at a lower hourly rate. Therefore, using a paralegal is an effective way to provide high quality legal services at a lower cost. Delegating duties can also make an attorney’s workload more manageable.
Real estate paralegals can work in a number of different settings, including private law firms, real estate agencies and title companies. Some paralegal students who want to work towards a specialty in real estate may complete an internship with an attorney who practices in that field. This can provide the specialized “foot-in-the-door” experience often helpful when trying to obtain employment as a real estate paralegal.
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