When people need legal documents prepared, they sometimes think, “I’ll just hire a paralegal directly – it will be cheaper than going to an attorney.” While that may sound practical, in Pennsylvania (and most states), it’s not how the law works.
Here’s why:
Paralegals Cannot Practice Law Independently
A paralegal is a trained legal professional who performs important work like drafting documents, organizing cases, and conducting research. However, in Pennsylvania, a paralegal cannot practice law independently or offer legal advice directly to the public.
Paralegals are bound by ethical rules and work under the supervision of a licensed attorney. This ensures that every document they draft or prepared is legally sound and that clients receive advice that complies with Pennsylvania Rules of Professional Conduct.
Learn more about the definition of a paralegal from the American Bar Association.
Why the Law Requires Attorney Supervision
The rule isn’t about limiting access – it’s about protecting the public. When someone drafts a will, prepares a power of attorney, or files a business document, even small mistakes can have big consequences:
🚫 An incorrectly executed Will could be challenged in court. (See our Estate Planning Paralegal Services to understand how attorneys and paralegals work together.)
🚫 A power of attorney that doesn’t meet legal standards may be rejected when it’s most urgently needed.
🚫 A flawed corporate filing could expose a business to penalties or liability. (Corporate & Business Law Paralegal Services).
Review by an attorney ensures that paralegal work is backed by legal authority and safeguards against these risks.
The Unauthorized Practice of Law (UPL)
When a paralegal offers legal services directly to an individual without attorney involvement, it can cross into what’s known as the unauthorized practice of law (UPL).
UPL isn’t just a technical violation – it can:
⚖️ Invalidate important documents.
⚖️ Leave individuals without legal recourse if mistakes are made.
⚖️ Put both the client and the paralegal at risk of penalties.
The Pennsylvania Bar Association provides guidance on why non-lawyers – including paralegals – cannot practice law independently
A More Affordable Option: Attorney + Paralegal Support
Here’s the good news: attorneys often use freelance paralegals as part of their team. This helps law firms and solo attorneys work more efficiently and keep client costs reasonable.
That means individuals still benefit from the cost-effectiveness of paralegal support, but with the legal protection of an attorney. Learn more about my role on the Freelance Paralegal Services page.
The Bottom Line
In Pennsylvania, paralegals are essential members of the legal system – but they do not replace attorneys. If you need a will, a power of attorney, or corporate documents, the safest path is ALWAYS through a licensed attorney.
Paralegals, working under attorneys, make the process faster, smoother, and more affordable. But direct-to-public paralegal services? That’s not just risky – it’s against the rules designed to protect you.
For more information on paralegal ethics and regulation, visit the National Federal of Paralegal Associations.
💡If you’re considering hiring a paralegal, you will need to do so through an attorney. You’ll be assured your documents are not only cost-effective, but also legally enforceable.
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📧 Email: wendy@diemnotary.com
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