Overview - the “Killer” Skills

Typing

As a paralegal, legal assistant or legal secretary, your typing speed has to Fast and Accurate.  60+ wpm (words per minute).

I provide you with several websites in Chapter 2 to test and/or help increase your speed.

 Spelling/Grammar

I’ll again provide you with a couple of wonderful websites to polish your English skills.

Writing (letters, legal documents, etc.)

How do you write a good letter?

Do you know where to begin?

I will show you the components of a good letter.  See Chapter 2.

Filing

Bottom line, it’s important that you’re able to place your hands on a document when an attorney needs it.

Read more about this subject in Chapter 2.

Proofreading

This is a skill that can either make or break your reputation.  More later.

Attention to Detail

You ask questions and pay attention to the “small stuff”.

Follow Direction

Your attorney may have a good reason for wanting a legal document completed a certain way.  Don’t be afraid to ask questions so that the directions are clear to you.

Experienced with WordPerfect and/or Microsoft Word

Experience with either one will do just fine.   Remember – the more software you are experienced with, the more $$$ you can command!

Punctuality

You arrive at the office on time – maybe even a little earlier than you’re expected to.

Dress Code

What is the overall dress code in a law firm?  It varies.  My recommendation is this:  dress professionally.  More about this later on. 

Attitude

Do you arrive to work in a good mood?

or

Do you look like you just bit into a lemon?

How you treat others in the workplace will determine your success.