What Can a Paralegal Do?

Going through a divorce can be a complex, overwhelming legal process. Could a paralegal help you? Paralegals are professionals that can handle many aspects of the divorce process. These individuals often work side-by-side with attorneys, taking some of their work for them. Paralegals are qualified professionals with significant education and training to perform many aspects of legal work. They work under the supervision of a licensed attorney.

Some paralegals work independently providing only specific duties allowed under state law. It’s important to know that paralegals cannot practice law. While they have incredible information and insight into the legal process, and often have as much understanding of it as some attorneys, they cannot specifically provide legal advice to you.

5 Things a Divorce Paralegal Can Help You with During a Divorce

While they cannot provide specific instruction to you in the legal actions to take during your divorce, paralegals can still help you throughout the process. Take a look at what these professionals can do under Utah’s state laws.

#1: Prepare Documents for Your Divorce

The divorce process involves completing numerous legal forms. These forms are complex but must be filled out in exact detail. They range from proof of income documents to the real estate-related documents. They include forms documenting joint accounts, debts, pensions, and vehicles. Each form requires documentation of value, interest, and ownership. It’s quite in-depth. A paralegal can help prepare documents needed for your divorce.

#2: Teach You How to Submit Those Forms

Now that those forms are complete, what do you do with them? A paralegal can tell you how to file your divorce documents with the court clerk to begin the legal process. He or she can also provide information about establishing a temporary order hearing and hearings for child and spousal support.

#3: Tell You How to Serve Forms to Your Spouse

The Utah state’s specific procedures for serving a spouse with divorce documentation outlines the steps you must take. You must serve the document within 120 days of the filing. A paralegal can help you learn how to file the forms as well as what to expect during the process. They can also help ensure you have proof of service (the process of serving the party).

#4: They Can Help You Fill Out Child Support and Alimony Requests

Paralegals can share information with you about how to file for child support and alimony. While they cannot tell you specifically how much to request or whether or not you should qualify for it, they can help you complete documentation. They can also help you modify these documents later on.

#5: They Can Educate You About the Divorce Process

Probably the most valuable service available from a paralegal is their ability to educate you about the legal process. They can tell you what happens and when. They can answer questions in general. Again, they cannot offer specific legal advice, though.

Although a paralegal can’t offer you specific legal advice, represent you in court, or offer the same level of service as an attorney, they are still invaluable in the process and cheaper than an attorney.

When you need help with preparing forms for your divorce, knowing where to file those forms, how to serve divorce papers to your spouse, or help filling out forms to modify child custody, child support, or alimony, Wall & Wall has 5 full-time divorce paralegals ready to help you.

Contact Wall & Wall Attorneys at Law

Working with an experienced and trusted Utah attorney from Wall & Wall Attorneys at Law provides you with access to the advice and guidance you need during this challenging process. We offer cost-effective paralegal services and attorneys to help you every step of the way. Contact us today to see how we can help you with your case!

Contact Wall & Wall, P.C., in Salt Lake City, Utah, for a free 30-minute initial consultation.

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