Role of Paralegals in India

The role of paralegals in India is crucial in providing access to justice to marginalized
sections of society. Paralegals act as a bridge between the community, social workers,
common individuals, and lawyers, providing legal advice, assistance, and promoting
community dispute resolution. They receive training in substantive law, government
procedures, investigation, interviewing, and community dispute resolution methods.
Paralegals complement formal legal aid and play a significant role in improving the
overall quality of professional legal education while expanding services for the poor.
The expected duties of paralegal volunteers include providing legal advice and
assistance to the community, promoting legal literacy, assisting in community dispute
resolution, and acting as a liaison between the community and legal professionals.
Paralegals are expected to possess a range of skills, including legal knowledge,
communication skills, empathy, cultural sensitivity, and a commitment to social
justice. Their duties encompass a wide array of activities aimed at empowering the
community and ensuring access to justice for all.
Paralegals in India play a vital role in addressing the unmet legal needs of the people,
especially the poor and marginalized. Their duties and required skills can be analyzed
in detail as follows:
1. Legal Knowledge and Skills:

Paralegals are required to have a strong understanding of substantive law and
government procedures. They need to be well-versed in legal principles, rights, and
responsibilities. Additionally, they should possess skills in legal research, drafting
legal documents, and understanding court processes. This knowledge equips them to
provide accurate legal advice and assistance to the community.
2. Communication Skills:
Effective communication is essential for paralegals to interact with individuals from
diverse backgrounds. They must be able to explain legal concepts in a clear and
understandable manner, especially to those with limited legal literacy. Strong
communication skills enable them to advocate for the rights of the community and
facilitate dialogue between parties involved in disputes.
3. Empathy and Cultural Sensitivity:

Paralegals need to demonstrate empathy and cultural sensitivity when dealing with
individuals facing legal challenges. Understanding the social and cultural context of
the community they serve is crucial for building trust and rapport. By being sensitive
to cultural nuances, paralegals can effectively address the legal needs of diverse
populations.
4. Commitment to Social Justice:

A strong commitment to social justice is a fundamental requirement for paralegals.
They should be dedicated to upholding the rights of the poor, women, minorities, and
other disadvantaged groups. This commitment drives their efforts to promote equality,
fairness, and access to justice within the community.
5. Community Dispute Resolution:

Paralegals are expected to assist in resolving disputes within the community through
non-adversarial approaches. They facilitate mediation, negotiation, and other
alternative dispute resolution methods to promote harmony and prevent escalation of
conflicts. By promoting peaceful resolution, paralegals contribute to the overall well-
being of the community.
6. Legal Literacy Promotion:

Paralegals play a key role in promoting legal literacy within the community. They
conduct workshops, seminars, and outreach programs to educate individuals about
their legal rights and responsibilities. By empowering the community with legal
knowledge, paralegals enable individuals to make informed decisions and assert their
rights.
7. Liaison Between Community and Legal Professionals:

Paralegals act as intermediaries between the community and legal professionals,
facilitating access to legal services and resources. They help individuals navigate the
legal system, connect them with pro bono lawyers or legal aid clinics, and ensure that
their voices are heard within the legal framework.
In conclusion, the role of paralegals in India is multifaceted, encompassing legal

assistance, community empowerment, and advocacy for social justice. Their required
skills include legal knowledge, communication abilities, empathy, cultural sensitivity,
and a strong commitment to promoting access to justice. By fulfilling their expected
duties, paralegals contribute significantly to addressing the legal needs of
marginalized communities and promoting a more equitable and inclusive legal
system.

Role of Paralegals in India

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The role of paralegals in India is crucial in providing access to justice to marginalized

1. Legal Knowledge and Skills:

3. Empathy and Cultural Sensitivity:

4. Commitment to Social Justice:

5. Community Dispute Resolution:

6. Legal Literacy Promotion:

7. Liaison Between Community and Legal Professionals:

In conclusion, the role of paralegals in India is multifaceted, encompassing legal

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