Questions to Ask in a Paralegal Interview
Strategic questions that demonstrate your legal knowledge, work ethic, and understanding of the firm's practice areas.
1What types of cases does this firm handle most frequently?
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What types of cases does this firm handle most frequently?
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Why this works
Shows interest in the firm's practice areas and helps you understand if your skills align with their needs.
2What software and case management systems do you use?
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What software and case management systems do you use?
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Why this works
Demonstrates technical awareness and helps you understand the tools you'll need to master.
3What does a typical day look like for a paralegal here?
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What does a typical day look like for a paralegal here?
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Why this works
Gives you realistic expectations about daily responsibilities and workload distribution.
4How do you handle document review and discovery processes?
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How do you handle document review and discovery processes?
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Why this works
Shows understanding of core paralegal functions and demonstrates knowledge of legal procedures.
5What opportunities are there for professional development?
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What opportunities are there for professional development?
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Why this works
Indicates career-mindedness and shows you're thinking long-term about your role.
6How do you manage deadlines and prioritize multiple cases?
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How do you manage deadlines and prioritize multiple cases?
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Why this works
Demonstrates understanding of the demanding nature of legal work and shows organizational thinking.
7What's the firm's approach to client communication?
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What's the firm's approach to client communication?
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Why this works
Shows you understand the importance of client relations and want to align with their communication style.
8How do you handle confidential information and maintain attorney-client privilege?
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How do you handle confidential information and maintain attorney-client privilege?
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Why this works
Demonstrates understanding of legal ethics and shows you take confidentiality seriously.
9What research resources and databases do you have access to?
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What research resources and databases do you have access to?
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Why this works
Shows interest in the tools available for legal research and demonstrates understanding of paralegal responsibilities.
10How do you coordinate with attorneys on case preparation?
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How do you coordinate with attorneys on case preparation?
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Why this works
Demonstrates understanding of the collaborative nature of legal work and shows you value teamwork.
11What's the firm's policy on continuing education and certification?
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What's the firm's policy on continuing education and certification?
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Why this works
Shows commitment to professional growth and demonstrates understanding of paralegal certification requirements.
12How do you handle court filing and calendar management?
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How do you handle court filing and calendar management?
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Why this works
Demonstrates knowledge of essential paralegal functions and shows understanding of court procedures.
13What's the firm's approach to technology and digital transformation?
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What's the firm's approach to technology and digital transformation?
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Why this works
Shows awareness of modern legal practice and demonstrates interest in staying current with legal technology.
14How do you manage billing and time tracking for clients?
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How do you manage billing and time tracking for clients?
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Why this works
Demonstrates understanding of law firm economics and shows awareness of client billing requirements.
15What's the firm's culture like for support staff?
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What's the firm's culture like for support staff?
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Why this works
Shows you care about workplace environment and want to understand the firm's values and culture.
16How do you handle conflicts of interest and ethical considerations?
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How do you handle conflicts of interest and ethical considerations?
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Why this works
Demonstrates understanding of legal ethics and shows you take professional responsibility seriously.
17What's the firm's approach to diversity and inclusion?
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What's the firm's approach to diversity and inclusion?
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Why this works
Shows you value inclusive workplaces and want to understand the firm's commitment to diversity.
18How do you stay updated on changes in law and regulations?
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How do you stay updated on changes in law and regulations?
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Why this works
Demonstrates understanding of the need for ongoing legal education and shows commitment to staying current.
19What's the firm's policy on remote work and flexible scheduling?
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What's the firm's policy on remote work and flexible scheduling?
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Why this works
Shows interest in work-life balance and helps you understand the firm's approach to modern work arrangements.
20What qualities make someone successful as a paralegal here?
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What qualities make someone successful as a paralegal here?
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Why this works
Gives you insight into what the firm values and helps you understand their expectations for success.
Acing Your Paralegal Interview
Expert tips and techniques for getting the most out of these questions.
Best Practices
Demonstrate Legal Knowledge
Show understanding of legal procedures, terminology, and the paralegal role. Reference specific legal processes and demonstrate familiarity with court systems.
Highlight Organizational Skills
Emphasize your ability to manage multiple tasks, meet deadlines, and maintain detailed records. These are crucial paralegal competencies.
Show Professionalism
Dress appropriately, arrive early, and demonstrate the same level of professionalism you would show to clients and court personnel.
Question Sequences
The Practice Area Sequence
The Professional Development Sequence
Common Pitfalls
Don't Ask About Salary First
Focus on the role, responsibilities, and firm culture before discussing compensation. Show you're interested in the work itself.
Don't Show Lack of Legal Knowledge
Research basic legal procedures and terminology. Avoid asking questions that reveal you don't understand fundamental legal concepts.
Don't Appear Unorganized
Bring copies of your resume, references, and any relevant certifications. Show the same attention to detail you'd bring to legal work.