In today’s post we are going to be talking about Legal Assistants and how as time goes by, it becomes even more important for them to have a second language (to be bilingual). It is important to highlight how being bilingual has been of importance in the history of law and how this can help not only clients but law firms in general; in the United States specifically, we have a continuing and growing population of non-English speakers, for whom it would be helpful to have Legal Assistants with knowledge of their language and culture. So, why don’t we get started? Let’s see what we can find today that might be helpful.
What is a Legal Assistant?
A legal assistant is of utmost importance within law firms, they help not only in the administrative area, but also provide support in legal proceedings. Legal assistants can assist administratively with research, organizing documents, gathering evidence and depositions, handling emails, scheduling meetings, etc.
It is of utmost importance to know that a legal assistant does not always have to be an attorney by profession, most of the time they may have certifications or degrees as legal assistants. In the legal process, legal assistants can assist attorneys, including as trial support.
But what should a legal assistant have? Here we show you:
- Experience as a legal secretary or legal assistant: This is important since what is going to be dealt with are legal cases, trials, case investigations, evidence gathering, among others.
- Good time management and organization: Since there will be handling appointments, resolutions and other matters, it is important that there is good time management, tidiness and organization.
- Knowledge of legal matters and processes: When dealing with legal cases, a knowledge of the law is essential, it is a critical requirement.
- Excellent written and spoken communication skills: Clear and empathetic communication is important, good customer service is essential since it involves working directly with people.
- Ability to work without supervision and meet deadlines: Having the ability to be able to work alone and accomplish what is requested in the time requested is important in any job or position, however it is considered important in this type of position given the nature of the position.
Why is bilingualism important in the legal field?
Bilingualism has become an aspect of importance not only in the legal field, but in all professional areas in general. However, in this article we will talk specifically about the legal area.
The percentage of non-native speakers in the United States is a factor that has been increasing over time and is not expected to go away. This generates a high and growing demand for professionals who have this important skill, a professional who is bilingual not only offers a translation service, but also offers a cultural and communicative vision that can provide a better service and that generates good experience for all these clients that speak any other language. An adaptative and way more natural communication comes to light when you have this language ability; it builds a trustful environment, removes all languages barriers, the service that is being provided gets better and clients feel more trust in what is being done for them, creating an environment where they feel that they are receiving the service they deserve. It is important to understand that in such a globalized world and essentially seeing the United States as a country that is so full of foreign language speakers, it is necessary that law firms and companies in general, seek to opt for candidates who also know another language other than just English, in other words, that they are bilingual. On many occasions clients present unconformities or communication problems, they do not feel understood or even feel a little lost with so much terminology that they do not understand and that could be easily explained by representatives who speak their language and know the jargon.
For these and so many more reasons, it is that today bilingualism in companies or having employees who are bilingual is very important, as mentioned above not only in the legal field, but in general.
Challenges in hiring bilingual legal assistants
In the US we can face several challenges when hiring bilingual staff.
- Limited talent pool: Finding bilingual employees in an English-speaking country is a bit more difficult, especially in the legal field, as it is not only about being fluent in the language, but also about having knowledge in the legal field, so we may face problems in finding someone who has the complete combo.
- Training and certification requirements: Many times, due in part to the same problem mentioned above, firms must provide additional training or certifications due to knowledge gaps, which, although they can be considered normal, are not expected.
- Cultural competence: Now, speaking of cultural competence, people who use the required language as their native language have an advantage over those who have it as a second language, because they have a better knowledge of the concepts and phrases used. This is important because when translating or explaining a case, cultural concepts must be considered so that the information is not misinterpreted.
- Cost of recruitment: Having a second language can be seen as a bonus on your resume, which should pay off better because of your ability. Now, companies looking for a local legal assistant who is bilingual may see this as a challenge to fit within their budget, as hiring a bilingual employee is more expensive or requires a higher budget, however, this is where Remote Scouts can help you, we can find the perfect candidate, who works remotely, is top tier talent and fits within your budget.
So, if you are ready to work with top-tier talent employees and explore the potential we can bring to your company, feel free to contact us, Remote Scouts is the solution for you! We look for solutions that inspire.
