What are freelance, contract and independent paralegals?
A freelance paralegal is used synonymously with contract paralegal and works as an independent contractor accountable to an attorney. Freelance paralegals are frequently contracted to work on a temporary basis. A freelance paralegal might fill a vacant position, provide extra support with a major case, or have an area of expertise that would befit a particular client. An independent paralegal provides services to clients in which the law is involved, but for whose work no attorney is accountable. Extreme caution must be exercised by the independent paralegal in order to avoid the unauthorized practice of law.