Outsourcing paralegal work: a guide for law firms

Law firms commonly outsource well-defined casework (drafting, legal research, chronologies, disclosure schedules and hearing bundles) to independent paralegals for capacity during busy periods. The work is returned to the firm for review and approval, and the firm keeps responsibility for supervision and regulatory compliance.

Updated 24 October 2026. General information only, not advice on your situation.

Work that outsources well

First drafts of letters, statements and schedules
Legal research notes
Chronologies and dramatis personae
Disclosure schedules
Hearing bundles and indices
Case progression tasks within an agreed scope

Setting it up properly

A written scope for each instruction, with deliverables and deadline
A conflict check before any papers are shared
Agreed secure document sharing and confidentiality terms, with data protection terms where personal data is involved
A clear supervising fee earner at the firm
A fee basis: one-off, fixed-fee project, hourly or monthly retained hours

How Courtwise can help

Courtwise Legal Guidance is an independent paralegal practice working by secure video across England and Wales. A free 15-minute introductory call is available to first-time clients. Outsourced paralegal support for law firms →

Questions

Who is responsible for outsourced paralegal work?

The instructing firm. Work is returned for review and approval, and the firm retains responsibility for supervision and regulatory compliance.

Official sources

Legal Services Act 2007, section 12 (reserved legal activities)

Related guides

This guide is general information about the law and procedure in England and Wales. It is not legal advice and does not create a client relationship. Courtwise is not a firm of solicitors and is not regulated by the Solicitors Regulation Authority.