What is the difference between a lawyer and a paralegal?

The difference between a lawyer and a paralegal is significant. Lawyers are legal professionals who receive extensive training and are licensed by the state after passing their bar exams. In California, this generally requires graduation from law school, passing the California Bar Exam, and obtaining a license to practice law. Lawyers are typically hired by clients to provide legal advice and represent them in various legal proceedings. Paralegals, on the other hand, provide legal support for lawyers and other legal professionals. They assist with preparing legal documents, conducting research, maintaining client files, and performing other administrative tasks. Paralegals do not need a law degree, but they must obtain certification or complete a paralegal program to work in California. In summary, the difference between a lawyer and a paralegal is that a lawyer is a legal professional licensed by the state who is responsible for providing legal advice and representing clients in legal proceedings, while a paralegal provides administrative and other legal support to lawyers and other legal professionals.

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