David Davis on the Key Skills Every Paralegal Should Master

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In the intricate world of law, paralegals are the unsung heroes working behind the scenes to ensure that cases run smoothly and efficiently. With workloads increasing and legal procedures growing more complex, the role of the paralegal has never been more vital—or more demanding. According to legal expert David Davis, mastering certain core skills can make the difference between a good paralegal and a great one.

With over two decades of experience in legal operations and mentorship, Davis has trained and worked alongside top-tier paralegals across diverse practice areas. Here, he breaks down the key skills every paralegal should master to thrive in today’s fast-paced legal environment.

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1. Legal Research and Writing

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“Legal research is the backbone of any solid legal case,” says Davis. Paralegals must be adept at navigating legal databases like Westlaw or LexisNexis to find precedents, statutes, and case law. But finding information isn’t enough—knowing how to analyze and present it clearly is just as critical.

“Strong writing skills are non-negotiable,” Davis emphasizes. Whether drafting memos, case summaries, or correspondence, paralegals need to communicate legal ideas in a way that’s clear, concise, and professional.

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2. Attention to Detail

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One misfiled document or misplaced comma can have serious consequences in legal work. Davis is a firm believer that attention to detail is what separates competent paralegals from exceptional ones.

“Every case is built on documentation, deadlines, and precision. A paralegal has to be the safety net—the one who catches the small things that could derail a case.”

This includes checking citations, proofreading contracts, organizing case files, and ensuring all documents are compliant with court standards.

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3. Organizational and Time Management Skills

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In many law firms, paralegals are juggling multiple cases and attorneys simultaneously. Davis stresses that without strong time management, a paralegal can quickly become overwhelmed.

“You have to be able to prioritize, multitask, and meet tight deadlines without sacrificing quality,” he explains. “It’s not just about getting things done—it’s about getting them done right and on time.”

He recommends paralegals use digital task management tools and maintain detailed checklists to keep track of court dates, filing deadlines, and client communications.

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4. Technological Proficiency

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The days of solely paper-based legal work are long gone. Today’s paralegals are expected to be tech-savvy and capable of using a range of legal software and platforms.

“Being proficient in case management software, e-discovery tools, and document automation platforms is a must,” says Davis. He also notes that understanding Excel, PDF editing tools, and even basic cybersecurity can make a big difference in both efficiency and credibility.

In addition, familiarity with virtual meeting platforms and digital filing systems is more important than ever in a post-pandemic world.

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5. Client Communication and Interpersonal Skills

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Paralegals often serve as a key point of contact for clients. “You’re not just a back-office worker—you’re a representative of the firm,” Davis points out.

This means paralegals must be able to communicate professionally, explain legal processes in layman’s terms, and manage sometimes emotional or high-stress conversations with empathy and tact.

Listening is just as important. “Being able to really hear what a client is saying—and what they’re not saying—can help prevent misunderstandings and build trust.”

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6. Ethical Judgment and Confidentiality

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Paralegals operate under the supervision of attorneys, but they must independently uphold high ethical standards. Confidentiality, in particular, is non-negotiable.

“Loose talk, even unintentionally, can breach client confidentiality and damage a case—or a firm’s reputation,” Davis warns.

He encourages paralegals to regularly review professional codes of conduct, such as those set by NALA (National Association of Legal Assistants) or NFPA (National Federation of Paralegal Associations), and always err on the side of caution.

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7. Adaptability and Willingness to Learn

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“The law changes. Technology changes. The needs of your firm change. You have to be ready to evolve,” says Davis.

He advises paralegals to stay curious and proactive. Attending legal workshops, taking certification courses, and staying up to date on legal trends are all essential to long-term success.

“Complacency is the enemy,” he adds. “The best paralegals I know are constantly looking for ways to improve.”

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Final Thoughts

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David Davis’s insights make one thing clear: being a great paralegal isn’t just about knowing the law—it’s about mastering a broad range of practical, interpersonal, and technical skills. In a field that demands precision, professionalism, and persistence, the ability to balance it all is what truly sets top-tier paralegals apart.

Whether you're just starting your career or looking to sharpen your edge, focusing on these core skills can help you stand out, serve clients better, and become an indispensable part of any legal team.

As Davis puts it, “The attorneys may argue the case, but the paralegals are the ones who make it possible.”