If you want to start a remote paralegal business, you’re in the right place. You’ll find many benefits from offering remote paralegal services, including:
- Flexibility (work from anywhere through an Internet-connected computer)
- Independence (accept and decline work at your discretion)
- Good work-life balance through effective time management)
- Livable salaries (experienced paralegals can earn more than $98,830 per year)
- Potential for growth through continuing education and a larger client base and team
But starting a virtual paralegal business has its challenges. You can overcome these challenges by reading our informative article. Here, we’ll discuss the relevant steps to start your remote paralegal business. You’ll also learn about the vital tools and tips for success.
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What Is a Remote Paralegal Business?
At its core, a remote paralegal business offers legal support services for:
- Independent attorneys with private practices
- Law firms
- Corporate legal departments
- Government agencies
- Nonprofit organizations
Furthermore, these are virtual paralegal services. Digital technology and tools are available to deliver these legal support services.
Remote paralegals can then deliver their services regardless of geographical distance. Plus, their virtual services mean more cost and time savings for their clients.
You can become a freelance virtual paralegal, too, but it’s a different ballgame. A freelance paralegal usually works on a project-by-project basis. A paralegal business has a formal structure and works on long-term contracts.
Plus, a paralegal business offers a wider range of tailored legal support services.
- Legal research
- Legal document preparation, review, and storage
- Administrative support
- Case management services
- Specialized services
There’s a high demand for virtual paralegal businesses, too. Your potential clients outsource these services because of their benefits. These include cost savings, talent access, flexibility and scalability.
For these reasons, now is the best time to consider starting a virtual paralegal business.
Skills and Certifications You’ll Need
You must earn the right credentials to start your remote paralegal business.
Educational Requirements
Formal education for remote paralegals is a must for many reasons. First, you’ll gain the knowledge and skills to become an effective paralegal. Second, you can attract more clients when you know what you’re doing, and you have the education to show for it.
You can choose between an associate’s or bachelor’s degree in paralegal studies or legal administration. An associate’s degree is an excellent starting point. But if you want more high-paying jobs for complex cases, a bachelor’s degree is a must.
If you’re changing careers, you can consider certificate programs instead.
Professional Certifications
Then, consider paralegal certifications for remote work to boost your client prospects.
- NALA’s Certified Paralegal (CP) is a nationally recognized credential for paralegals.
- NFPA’s Registered Paralegal (RP) is for experienced paralegals.
Check with your state’s bar associations for paralegal certifications, too.
Essential Skills
Becoming successful means developing these vital skills for a virtual paralegal business.
- Legal research writing skills
- Communication skills
- Time management and organization skills
- Technical skills in the use of technology, such as legal software and communication tools
Specialized Knowledge
You should consider developing a niche expertise to attract more clients. Real estate law, family law, and intellectual property law are niche areas.
Steps to Start Your Remote Paralegal Business
Here’s how to start a virtual paralegal business on the right foot. You can start it soon after earning your paralegal certification. But you may want to gain relevant work experience first to develop practical skills.
Create a business plan.
Start by creating your remote paralegal business setup or plan. Think of it as your roadmap to success, with goals as your milestones.
- Identify your target clients and research their paralegal needs. If possible, start with independent attorneys and individuals seeking paralegal aid.
- Define your paralegal services in clear terms. You may, for example, specialize in legal research, document preparation, or scheduling and billing. Consider niche services, too, such as in real estate law.
- Determine your rates. You can offer flat fees, charge per hour, or work on a retainer contract.
Register your business.
Your paralegal business must operate as a legal entity, too.
- Choose a unique business name that reflects your professionalism and expertise.
- Select a legal structure, such as a sole proprietorship or an LLC.
- Secure the necessary licenses and permits from your local and state agencies.
Set up your home office.
While you’re processing your business papers, set up your home office.
- Invest in a reliable computer setup, preferably with dual monitors and a high-speed Internet connection.
- Use secure storage software and equipment for client data (e.g., cloud-based legal software)/
Test your setup so that there are little to no glitches on your first business day.
Market your services.
Start marketing virtual paralegal services ASAP. You want to build your client base ASAP so that you can start earning money soon.
- Build a professional website that showcases your paralegal certifications, experiences, and services. Case studies, legal research samples, and testimonials are great, too. Use white hat SEO strategies to boost its online presence, too.
- Leverage LinkedIn and online legal forums to expand your network in the legal industry.
Invest in technology.
As a virtual paralegal business owner, technology is a valuable asset. You can use its tools to improve client satisfaction and cost efficiency. Start by investing in these digital tools and apps.
- Case management software, such as Clio, MyCase, or PracticePanther
- Scheduling and productivity tools like Asana, Trello, and Calendly
- Encrypted communication platforms, such as Microsoft Teams and Zoom
Yes, it takes time, energy, and money to start your business. But it’s worth the profits if you manage it well.
Building Your Client Base
Your clients are your bread and butter. Building a remote paralegal client base as a newbie has its challenges, but it’s doable.
Network and network some more.
Networking for virtual paralegal businesses should start while you’re still pursuing your degree. Start with your peers, professors, and alumni association.
Join paralegal associations and online legal professional groups. Attend in-person and virtual legal webinars, workshops, and conferences.
Leverage social media.
Finding clients for remote paralegal services is faster with social media. Take advantage of the networking and marketing tools in your social media accounts. Connect with lawyers and potential clients on LinkedIn, Twitter, and Facebook.
Take advantage of referrals and partnerships.
Even in the Digital Age, word-of-mouth is still the best advertising. Build strong relationships with attorneys and legal consultants. Establish a positive reputation for professionalism and competence. Request for their referrals and recommendations to potential clients.
Use freelance platforms.
Check out Fiverr and Upwork because of the wide range of opportunities.
Tools and Technology for Your Remote Paralegal Business
Start with the most essential tools for remote paralegal businesses. This way, you won’t feel overwhelmed by their costs and learning process.
Case Management Software
The cost of legal software for paralegals varies between $20 and $100/user/month. But it’s an essential expense because it boosts the quality of services rendered.
Start with one of these popular legal software:
- Clio
- MyCase
- PracticePanther
Secure Communication Tools
Yet another must-have technology for virtual paralegal work is encrypted email services and secure file-sharing platforms. These ensure client confidentiality and information security.
- ProtonMail or ZixMail
- Dropbox or Google Drive
Time Tracking and Billing Software
You want to get fair compensation for your work. This is possible when you use tools for accurate time tracking and billing like:
- Toggl
- QuickBooks
- Bill4Time
Productivity and Collaboration Tools
Trello and Asana are among the best project management apps. You’ll stay organized and meet deadlines even with several clients on your plate.
Legal Research Databases
Be sure you have access to legal research databases, too. LexisNexis and Westlaw are the best for professional-grade legal research.
Challenges and Tips for Success
Set realistic expectations by being aware of the challenges of remote paralegal work. Keep our tips for running a virtual paralegal business to overcome them, too.
Time Management
Balancing several clients and deadlines is the biggest challenge. Use scheduling and productivity tools to overcome it.
Maintaining Professionalism
Consistent professionalism is among the best success strategies for paralegals. You must then always communicate clearly and meet deadlines to build trust.
Adapting to Changing Needs
Stay on top of the legal field’s latest trends, practices, and technologies to beat the competition.
Work-Life Balance
Working from home has its perks, but it isn’t always good for work-life balance. Set boundaries so you can avoid burnout.
Continuous Learning
With an ever-evolving legal industry, continuous learning is vital for success. Take online courses and enroll in workshops to keep updated and improve your skills.
Conclusion
To start a remote paralegal business, earn the right credentials, set up your business, and build your client base. You’ll find plenty of virtual paralegal business opportunities, too. Take advantage of traditional and digital channels to grow your business.
If you want more online paralegal career resources, check out our Online Paralegal Degree now. You’ll find more information about starting your business there.
