Question Overview: While you want to know that the paralegal is aware of their weaknesses, you also want to know that they are not overly concerned with them. You want to know that they are confident in their ability to perform their job functions and do not let their weaknesses get in the way.
Sample Answer: I have a tendency to be a perfectionist. I am working on it.
Question Overview: You need to know that the paralegal is not only interested in the short-term, but also has a long-term vision for their career. The paralegal should be able to articulate a vision that includes their career path and how they will get there.
Sample Answer: I see myself as a senior paralegal with a large law firm. I want to be able to help others and have a positive impact on the lives of others.
Question Overview: The legal profession is a fast-paced one. There are many deadlines that are not negotiable. You need to know that the paralegal you hire can handle the pressure of multiple deadlines and still produce quality work.
Sample Answer: I would make sure that I had a plan for each deadline and that I had the resources necessary to meet them.
Question Overview: The paralegal may have had a long road to their current position. You want to know that they are committed to their career and have the drive to succeed.
Sample Answer: I started out as a legal assistant and worked my way up.
Question Overview: The paralegal will be working for you. You need to know that they want to work for you and that they are not just looking for a job. The paralegal needs to be excited about the prospect of working for your firm.
Sample Answer: I have always been interested in the work that your firm does. I have read about your cases and I am impressed with your reputation.
Question Overview: This is a common question that is asked of all job candidates. The paralegal is no exception. You want to know that the paralegal is aware of their weaknesses and is working to correct them. You also want to know that they are aware of their strengths and are able to leverage them in the workplace.
Sample Answer: I am very detail oriented and I am always looking for ways to improve my work. My biggest weakness is that I tend to be overly critical of myself.
Question Overview: This is a question that you should be prepared to answer. You want to know that the person that you hire as a paralegal is passionate about the field. They will be more likely to stay with the job and do it well.
Sample Answer: I have always been interested in law and the legal system. I want to help people who are going through a difficult time.
Question Overview: The legal profession is a team-oriented one. Even the most experienced attorneys rely on their paralegals to help them with their work. You want to know that your paralegal will be able to work well with others.
Sample Answer: I have always been a team player. I am able to work well with others and can help them when they need it.
Question Overview: This is a question that is designed to test your paralegal's knowledge of the law. You want to know that they are aware of the legal issues that are relevant to your practice.
Sample Answer: The Security Exchange Commission is the federal agency that regulates the securities industry.
Question Overview: You are going to have to deliver bad news to your paralegal at some point. You need to know that they can handle it professionally and without taking it personally. You also want to know that they can deliver bad news in a professional manner.
Sample Answer: I am not afraid of delivering bad news. I try to be as diplomatic as possible, but I also do not sugarcoat the message.
Question Overview: The paralegal needs to be able to handle pressure well. They will be working on high-stakes matters and will be expected to perform at a high level. The paralegal will also be under pressure from the attorney to perform well.
Sample Answer: I have always been able to handle pressure well. I have never been one to buckle under the weight of it.
Question Overview: The paralegal needs to have a clear understanding of what is expected of them. They need to know what is expected of them on a daily basis, as well as the long-term goals that they are expected to achieve.
Sample Answer: I expect to be given a wide variety of tasks. I also expect to be able to work independently and with others.
Question Overview: The paralegal needs to be able to handle many different tasks, including some that are very detailed. You want to know that the paralegal is able to handle the details and not miss anything.
Sample Answer: I am very detail oriented. I have been told that I am a perfectionist.
Question Overview: The paralegal needs to be able to explain their area of expertise in a way that is easily understandable by others. You want to know that they are able to communicate complex concepts in a way that is easy for others to understand.
Sample Answer: I know the law surrounding the right of publicity as if it were a Wikipedia page.
Question Overview: The paralegal should be able to provide a detailed description of their duties. You want to know that they are capable of handling a wide variety of assignments. You also want to know that they have a good understanding of the legal system and can handle the tasks that are required of them.
Sample Answer: I am currently responsible for a wide variety of tasks. I am responsible for document preparation, legal research, and administrative support.
Question Overview: The paralegal needs to be able to articulate the skills that they bring to the table. They need to be able to explain how they can help the firm. You want to know that they are not only aware of their skills, but that they are also able to communicate them effectively.
Sample Answer: I have a strong work ethic and I am very dedicated to my work. I am also very good at communicating with others and working as part of a team.
Question Overview: This question is a great way to find out what the paralegal thinks they can bring to the table. It is also a good way to see how they view their own skills. You want to know that they are confident in their abilities and that they are aware of their strengths.
Sample Answer: I am very detail-oriented and I am always prepared. I think that these are two qualities that will help me contribute to your team.
Question Overview: This question is designed to see how the paralegal approaches their work. You want to know that they will not leave you hanging and will do everything in their power to complete the project.
Sample Answer: I would rather turn something in on time and incomplete than miss the deadline and complete the project.
Question Overview: The paralegal's background can be an important indicator of their success. If they come from a family of lawyers, it suggests that they have been exposed to the legal profession at a young age and have had the opportunity to learn about it. It also suggests that they may have had the opportunity to learn about the legal profession from their family members.
Sample Answer: I am the first in my family to go to college. I am very proud of my family and their accomplishments.
Question Overview: The legal profession is a stressful one. You need to know that your paralegal is able to handle the stress that comes with the job. You also want to know that they are able to handle stress in a healthy manner.
Sample Answer: I am able to remain calm under pressure and I do not let it affect my work.