8.1

Just the Facts

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INTRODUCTION

Research involves finding the law. Investigation involves finding the facts. It is an important difference. As you read these pages, keep in mind that your role changes when you conduct investigation. So does your mentality.

Lecture Notes . . .

INVESTIGATION
Not every paralegal engages in investigation. The investigation discussed here relates to law office investigation, not "Magnum PI!"

Having said that, having a knowledge of investigative skills can make a paralegal a more productive and valuable employee for the attorney.

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Paralegal Perspective . . .

INVESTIGATION & EVIDENCE
Not every paralegal will conduct full fledged investigations, such as tracking down a missing witness. But almost every paralegal will benefit from possessing the skills related to law office investigation. Those skills, which include interviewing and accessing search resources, can assist a paralegal in other aspects of his or her work. Investigation, for example, is very closely related to discovery. Thus, the interviewing skills developed here will assist a paralegal prepare discovery documents, as well. And besides, you never know when those research skills may come in handy on the job. Those skills made a big difference in my career as a paralegal!


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Commonly Asked Questions . . .

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Exercise

Exercises

Investigation Terms
Investigation Exercise