As a paralegal at The McShane Firm, I am proud to be part of a team that is dedicated to making a difference in our clients’ lives. We help keep families together. And that feels great!
Every day, we work together to fight for the rights of those facing DUI charges and other legal challenges. Today, I’m going to give you a glimpse into the life of a paralegal at our firm and share some of the ways we contribute to the success of our clients’ cases.
Morning Routine: Getting Organized
My day usually starts with a hot cup of coffee and a review of my to-do list. Organization is key in the legal field, and it’s crucial to stay on top of deadlines and case updates. I use this time to prioritize my tasks for the day, ensuring that I can provide the best possible support to our attorneys and clients.
I love it here. At most firms, a paralegal has up to 4 different attorneys to work for! Not at The McShane Firm. It’s one. Just one. And we are a team.
I am always scanning schedules and cases for time conflicts. When a new client joins my team I call them right away before even making a file. I want to get to know them and for them to get to know me. I care. Then, I’ll start assembling their file. I’ll look up to see when their court date is and make sure the date works for the client and my attorney. If it isn’t good for the client or the attorney, I draw on my long-term personal contacts with the courts to find dates that work for everyone.
Client Communication: Building Trust and Understanding
One of my main responsibilities as a paralegal is to maintain open lines of communication with our clients. Whether it’s answering questions about their case, gathering important documents, or providing updates on the progress of their case, it’s essential to be available and responsive. I routinely call my clients out of the blue just to check in and see how they are doing. Again, I care.
Being charged with a DUI can be an incredibly stressful experience, and our clients rely on us to guide them through the process. By actively listening and empathizing with their concerns, I help build trust and rapport, ensuring they feel supported every step of the way. It may be their first or second or even fifth time, but this is my 1000+ time.
Research and Case Preparation: Uncovering Crucial Details
A significant part of my job involves gathering information whether it’s from the client about pre-existing medical conditions, for example, interviewing witnesses to get a statement, gathering police reports and dash cameras or body cameras or conducting research, it’s all about gathering information to help build a strong defense for our clients. This might include reviewing police reports, dash or body cameras, analyzing case law, or drafting motions with my attorney.
As a paralegal, I have the unique opportunity to dig deep into the details of each case, searching for any discrepancies or inconsistencies that could make a difference in the outcome. With the legal and practical knowledge of my attorney who knows the law, the people and the science in detail, we make a great team. Our meticulous attention to detail is one of the factors that sets The McShane Firm apart from other legal practices.
Team Collaboration: Working Together for Success
At The McShane Firm, we believe that collaboration is key to achieving the best possible results for our clients. Throughout the day, I work closely with the other attorneys and paralegals in the office. I have up to 16 other super experienced DUI and criminal attorneys and paralegals to share my findings and discuss strategies to strengthen our clients’ defense with. No other firm can boast this. This is all we do and we do it right!
By combining our knowledge, skills, and perspectives, we are able to approach each case with a comprehensive understanding and develop innovative solutions that give our clients the best chance of success.
Reflecting on the Impact: Making a Difference
At the end of the day, I take a moment to reflect on the work I’ve done and the impact it has on our clients’ lives. Being a paralegal at The McShane Firm is more than just a job – it’s an opportunity to make a real difference for individuals and families facing some of the toughest challenges of their lives.
It feels so good to give people their lives back. It truly does.
If you or someone you know is facing DUI charges in Pennsylvania, I encourage you to reach out to The McShane Firm. Our dedicated team of attorneys and paralegals is committed to providing the highest level of legal representation and support, helping you navigate the legal process with confidence and peace of mind.
Our Clients are entitled to a Bill of Rights which states:
- Our clients have the right to expect, we will be proactive in communication. You will hear it from us first. We will return all phone calls, texts and emails promptly.
- Our clients have the right to expect plain speaking, straight shooting. No B. S.
- Our clients have the right to expect us to do it right the first time, every time.
- Our clients have the right to expect us to be on time and professionally prepared for all court appearances, and all meetings.
- Our clients have the right to expect that they will be fully informed at all times.
This is our promise to you. Call today to get us on your side: (717) 657-3900.
