Understanding Paralegalism: Roles, Duties, and Qualities
Paralegals play a crucial role in the legal system by providing basic legal services, assisting with legal problem-solving, and advocating for their community. They bridge the gap between the community and legal professionals, offering support in resolving disputes, preparing legal documents, and monitoring human rights violations. Key qualities of a paralegal include literacy, effective communication, cultural awareness, and analytical thinking. Their voluntary services are driven by a passion for justice and advocacy.
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Presentation Transcript
paralegalism paralegalism .
PARALEGALISM PARALEGALISM Who is a paralegal? A paralegal is an individual, who is not a lawyer but who has basic legal knowledge and skills
PARALEGALISM PARALEGALISM The roles of a paralegal To enlighten members of their community on their legal rights and assist them solve legal problems The role of a paralegal worker is generally to enlighten members of their community ontheir legal rights and assist them solve legal problems. Specifically their duties of
PARALEGALISM PARALEGALISM Duties of paralegals Duties of paralegals Provide basic legal services in the community; Provide a link between the community and other persons or institutions Interested in the general welfare and development of the community; Provide an avenue for alternative dispute resolution and negotiation on behalf of members of the local community and, where necessary, consult and liaise with professional lawyers and legal aid organizations
PARALEGALISM PARALEGALISM Duties of paralegals Duties of paralegals Assist the community to identify, prioritize and if possible satisfy its needs Preparing basic legal documents for members of the community; Monitoring human rights violations; Conducting preliminary investigations in cases which eventually get referred to a lawyer; Referring those with problems with to appropriate organizations; and Lobby for law reform
PARALEGALISM PARALEGALISM Qualities of Paralegals Qualities of Paralegals Basic literacy knowledge. It is essential that a paralegal have knowledge of the local language of the community they are operating in and also have a working knowledge of Kiswahili and English; Ability to communicate effectively and simply; A willingness and ability to volunteer as the very basis of paralegalism is the lack of payment for the services rendered by the paralegals; Knowledge of the culture and practices of the local community; Have an objective and analytical mind;
PARALEGALISM PARALEGALISM Qualities of Paralegals Qualities of Paralegals Be trustworthy and have integrity; Be a patient and a good listener; Be gender sensitive and adhere to basic human rights principles like nondiscrimination; Background experience in and/or dedication for community service; and Be self-confident yet humble. Conclusion Paralegals are very important members society. They assist the community members to access legal services.
