What can a paralegal do in England and Wales?

In England and Wales a paralegal can help with a wide range of legal work that is not a reserved legal activity: organising evidence, drafting documents and letters, legal research, preparing bundles and explaining procedure. The six reserved legal activities in section 12 of the Legal Services Act 2007 can only be carried out by people who are authorised or exempt.

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

The six reserved legal activities

The exercise of a right of audience (speaking for someone in court)
The conduct of litigation
Reserved instrument activities
Probate activities
Notarial activities
The administration of oaths

What that leaves

A great deal of practical help sits outside those activities: getting your documents in order, writing a chronology, drafting a witness statement for you to approve, explaining what a procedural step means and preparing you for a hearing. Many people representing themselves need exactly this.

Choosing the right support

Ask anyone you instruct whether they are regulated, by whom, and what they can and cannot do. Courtwise Legal Guidance is an independent paralegal practice: it is not a solicitors' firm and is not regulated by the Solicitors Regulation Authority. Where a matter needs a reserved activity or specialist regulated advice, we say so and help you consider an appropriately authorised professional.

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. Paralegal support for individuals →

Questions

Is a paralegal cheaper than a solicitor?

Often, because paralegal support can be limited to the tasks you need. Ask for a written scope and fee before any work starts.

Can a paralegal represent me in court?

Not as of right. Speaking for someone in court is a reserved activity. A paralegal may assist as a McKenzie Friend with the court's permission, and employment tribunals can allow non-lawyer representatives subject to their rules.

Official sources

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.