National Paralegal Day celebrates “unsung” services to the legal profession

The first ever National Paralegal Day took place last week, marked by celebrations held at the House of Commons. 

The national day on 14 March was established to recognise the important contributions that paralegals make to the legal profession. Increasingly, paralegals fill a void created by government cuts to legal aid and pressures on firms to drive down costs.

Awards were presented across multiple categories, including “in recognition of services to the paralegal profession 2018-19”, which was dually won by Caroline Spencer-Boulton and Chennel Scott.

Amanda Hamilton, chief executive of the National Association of Licensed Paralegals, which sponsored the event, said: “Paralegals are often misunderstood and not given the recognition they deserve. We want to change this and let our members know they are appreciated and are an important part of the legal profession. National Paralegal Day and the evening event at the House of Commons is a great way to do this, and a wonderful opportunity to meet our members and thank them for all their hard work.”