Interviewing clients is a big part of many paralegal jobs. Preparing witnesses for depositions or the courtroom is another way to role play in a classroom. One student will take a list of questions and work with another to gather information and history. Some basic deposition questions will be asked and answered. Role playing helps put the future paralegal at ease in this task. Note-taking and investigative skills can also be developed in this manner.
Participating in mock trials is a widely used technique. In the classroom, students take on the parts of plaintiff, defendant, judge and jury. This gives students a good idea of courtroom procedure and etiquette. Trials ranging from civil to criminal, family law and even intellectual property can be simulated. The differences between these types of law will provide students with experience and also an idea of what type of law they wish to pursue upon graduation.
Practicing interviewing also extends to the telephone. One student can call a prospective "firm" and ask questions regarding a potential case such as a divorce or custody matter. The other student will learn what to say and not say in this exercise. Confidentiality and knowing the limits on what a paralegal can say are key to having a long and successful career. Paralegals are bound by a Code of Ethics established by the National Association of Legal Assistants and many state bar associations.
Drafting documents is an essential skill that a paralegal may often be called on to perform. One student goes by a script and acts as a family law client, civil suit client or other. Another student gathers all pertinent information and gets an idea of the documents that will be needed. This works to sharpen many skills and introduces different documents for specific cases. The student then organizes the information and prepares documents for review.