Which of the following is a key responsibility of a paralegal in legal matters?

Conducting legal research and analysis is a key responsibility of a paralegal in legal matters. Paralegals assist lawyers by researching case law, statutes, regulations, and other legal materials relevant to a client's case. This foundational work enables attorneys to prepare for court appearances, draft legal documents, and provide informed advice to clients. The ability to effectively locate and analyze legal information is crucial for supporting legal proceedings and ensuring that all arguments are well-grounded in the law.

In contrast, drafting new laws is typically a legislative function that falls outside the scope of a paralegal’s responsibilities. Representing clients in higher courts is generally reserved for licensed attorneys, as paralegals do not have the authority to represent clients in court. Managing a law firm's finances is typically a task assigned to administrative staff or accountants, rather than paralegals, whose focus remains on legal research and support tasks related to legal practice.