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Becoming a Legal
Research Specialist
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Q.
I want to be a Law
Research Specialist...I have a bit of experience and currently work as legal
bookkeeper. Where can I obtain Low cost case research files in order to
start?.. Your expertise is greatly appreciated --Bonnie
Advice
by Tammy Harrison
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Dear Bonnie,
When I did legal research, it was while I was in the employ of attorney's.
But, you may have a great idea for freelance work, if you can market yourself
to smaller firms who cannot or do not employ researchers.
Off the top of my head, I suggest you start at your county courthouse. When
someone has been arrested and they ask for an attorney, but cannot afford one,
that client is sent to an attorney on a list that the county keeps (rotational
basis for the attorney's). These lawyers are only paid a small percentage
(usually per hour) of what they would charge a client who walked in their
door, but most offer these services to gain experience, to gain notoriety,
etc. I think you could offer your research services to such attorney's, for
free (to gain your own experience and references) or for a very small fee for
a while. Once you have the experience and references, you can then "take
that to the bank", establish the going rate and look for other similar
work.
Another place to look would be convictions at the county level. Unless a
judge seals a file, all are open to the public and you can order copies from
the clerk.
As stated, you may have to work pro bono for a while to conquer the
learning curve, but if you stick with it, you should do great - especially if
you live in a very small area or a large metropolis. Good luck!
About the PowerHomeBiz.com Guide:
Tammy Harrison is a successful
home-based working mom for over five years. She holds a degree from Mizzou in
Consumer Economics. Her business focuses on Marketing and Creativity for
Small Businesses as well as numerous other small
businesses. For more information, you may contact her at http://www.jdharrison.com
or email TammyH@jdharrison.com
The opinions expressed in this column are
those of the author, not of PowerHomeBiz.com.
Users
should not treat the Guide's response as legal, accounting, or
professional advice as all answers are intended to be general in
nature. Such advice can only be properly given by qualified
professionals who are fully aware of a user's specific geographical areas or circumstances, such
as
an attorney or accountant.
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