Legal Paraprofessionals in Arizona: What We Can and Can’t Do
Arizona is leading the way in expanding access to justice through the licensing of legal paraprofessionals (LPs). These professionals are authorized to provide limited legal services without direct attorney supervision, helping bridge the gap for individuals who need affordable legal assistance. But while LPs offer valuable support, their scope of practice is carefully defined by the Arizona Supreme Court.
At JNH Legal Services, PLLC, we can help. If you considering working with a legal paraprofessional in Arizona, it is important to understand what we can—and can’t—do under state law.
What Is a Legal Paraprofessional?
A legal paraprofessional in Arizona is a licensed professional who has met specific education, experience, and examination requirements to provide legal services in designated practice areas. The Arizona Supreme Court established the LP program to improve access to legal help for underserved populations.
LPs are not attorneys, but they are authorized to perform many of the same functions within a limited scope. They must adhere to ethical standards and are subject to oversight by the Arizona State Supreme Court and the Legal Paraprofessional Licensing Program.
Practice Areas Authorized for LPs
Legal paraprofessionals in Arizona may provide services in the following areas:
- Family law (e.g., divorce, child custody, parenting time, child support)
- Landlord-tenant disputes
- Debt collection and consumer law
- Administrative law (e.g., unemployment benefits, professional licensing issues)
In these areas, LPs can represent clients in court, draft legal documents, and negotiate settlements without the supervision of an attorney.
What Legal Paraprofessionals Can Do
Arizona LPs have a broad range of capabilities within their authorized practice areas. These include:
1. Represent Clients in Court
LPs can appear in court on behalf of clients in certain civil matters, including family law and landlord-tenant cases. They can argue motions, present evidence, and advocate for their clients, similar to what an attorney would do.
2. Draft and File Legal Documents
LPs can prepare pleadings, motions, agreements, and other legal documents. They can also file these documents with the court and manage procedural requirements.
3. Provide Legal Advice
Unlike traditional paralegals, LPs are permitted to give legal advice to clients within their approved practice areas. This includes explaining legal rights, outlining options, and helping clients make informed decisions.
4. Negotiate Settlements
LPs can engage in settlement negotiations with opposing parties or their attorneys. This is especially helpful in family law cases, where reaching agreements outside of court can save time and reduce conflict.
5. Charge for Services
LPs operate independently and may charge clients for their services. This makes them a cost-effective alternative to hiring a full attorney, especially for routine or uncontested matters.
What Legal Paraprofessionals Can’t Do
Despite their expanded role, LPs in Arizona are subject to important limitations. They cannot:
1. Practice Outside Approved Areas
LPs are restricted to the specific practice areas authorized by their license. They cannot handle criminal cases, personal injury claims, estate planning, or other legal matters outside their scope.
2. Represent Clients in Felony or Complex Litigation
LPs are not permitted to represent clients in felony criminal cases or complex civil litigation. These matters require full attorney representation due to their legal complexity and potential consequences.
3. Provide Services Without a License
Only individuals who have been licensed by the Arizona Supreme Court as legal paraprofessionals may offer these services. Unlicensed individuals cannot act independently or give legal advice.
4. Supervise Other Legal Professionals
LPs may work independently, but they cannot supervise attorneys, paralegals, or other legal staff. Their role is limited to providing services directly to clients within their scope.
5. Violate Ethical Rules
LPs must follow strict ethical guidelines, including confidentiality, conflict of interest rules, and professional conduct standards. Violations can result in disciplinary action or loss of licensure.
When to Consult an Arizona Legal Paraprofessional
A legal paraprofessional (LP) can help you analyze your case and determine the best path forward. Jason Halper, the founder of JNH Legal Services, PLLC, is a dedicated LP with years of experience helping clients find cost-effective and efficient solutions. He is an accomplished paraprofessional and author, writing “Licensed to Lead: A Comprehensive Guide to Emerging as a Legal Paraprofessional.”
Learn How a Legal Paraprofessional Can Help You
If you’re facing a legal issue in Arizona and need affordable, professional help, a legal paraprofessional may be a smart option—especially for family law or landlord-tenant matters. LPs offer many of the same services as attorneys at a lower cost, with the added benefit of direct representation.
Consult an experienced legal paraprofessional at JNH Legal Services, PLLC to learn more about how we can help. Contact us today to schedule a consultation.
Information on this website is for general information purposes only. Nothing on this site should be taken as legal advice. This information is not intended to create, and receipt or viewing does not constitute an attorney-client relationship. By submitting your information in any form on this website, you consent to be contacted via phone call, text message, or email. Please be aware that, while we use commercially reasonable means to protect information that is submitted, such information can never be 100% secure.