Answer to Question #191357 in Law for Lwandi Mapholoba

Question

 Certain matters that paralegals come across must be referred to an attorney. How can a paralegal provide support to both the attorney and client when a matter is referred? 

Answer 1

Paralegals must understand the legal problem involved which must be referred. Paralegals should ensure to obtain all the necessary required information before referring the case to the attorney. All relevant facts and records of history of the case, all relevant documents collected and a record of all actions that were taken in respect of the case must be included in the forwarded information. The Paralegals must ensure that they clearly explain to the client that the case is referred to an attorney and the action steps that will be taken by the attorney to whom the matter is referred, must also be explained. The paralegals must also inform and explain to the clients that the referrals to the   attorneys may result in costs and fees that they might need to pay and have to be confirmed with attorney at the first consultation. Paralegals must follow up with the attorneys regularly in respect of the case referred and must report any progress made with the case to the clients.