Three Secret Job Titles Worn by Every Great Paralegal

By Molly Gulbrandson, ParaOne Legal Services

When people picture a paralegal, perhaps they imagine someone quietly typing away, organizing files, or checking citations. And yes, we do all of that, but the reality is far more dynamic.

The truth is, the best paralegals I know juggle more balls than your favorite circus clown, and not one of them is listed in the official job description.

The Air Traffic Controller

Litigation is a constant flow of moving parts. Deadlines, filings, client questions, and those last-minute “can we add this one more thing?” moments.

A good paralegal keeps all of that in the air without collisions. We know when to slow things down, when to reroute, and when to make sure the right document is in the right place at the exact right time.

The Detective

Every case has its mysteries: missing exhibits, unclear timelines, or documents that seem to have vanished into thin air. Paralegals dig in, track down the facts, and connect the dots. It’s not always glamorous work, but it’s what keeps the case on solid ground.

The Therapist

High-stakes cases mean high stress. For attorneys, clients, and sometimes even other team members. The best paralegals bring a calm presence, listen when people need to vent, and find ways to keep the team grounded so everyone can focus on the work at hand.

Why it Matters

Without this mix of skills, cases stall, deadlines feel heavier, and the team loses its rhythm. A strong paralegal isn’t just an extra set of hands. We’re a steady presence, your go-to problem-solver, and a team player who keeps the whole operation moving forward. Whether in-house or freelance, having that secret blend of titles in your corner makes the work smoother, the days less frantic, and the results stronger.