Issues, Challenges, and Prospects of the Introduction of the Practice of Paralegals: The Role of NBA Vis-À-Vis Access to Justice in Nigeria

Abstract

Purpose: This paper examined the uptightness of the legal practice in Nigeria as evident in extant provisions of the legal practitioners’ rules of professional conduct which prohibit non-lawyers from the practice of law in Nigeria. It is however, posited that it would be rather reasonable, beneficial and dignifying to borrow a leaf from other climes where the practice of paralegals-persons trained in law and law practices and/or under the guidelines provided by relevant bodies of Bar Associations in these different jurisdictions, is in vogue.

Methodology: This work adopts doctrinal, descriptive, prescriptive and analytical research methods.

Findings: This work found that most lawyers in their write-ups expressed general apprehensions that the introduction of the practice of paralegals would open the floodgate of competition and more sharp practices in the legal profession.

Conclusion: Most lawyers suggest that the practice of paralegals should not be encouraged in Nigeria. However, some others welcome the concept provided that the practice of paralegals is well regulated and streamlined.

Recommendations: Nevertheless, this paper recommends, among other things, that while the envisaged regulations for the practice of paralegals is welcomed, there is a need to consider the entire concept dispassionately. This should be with a view to assessing its potentials in terms of its capacity to ameliorate the inherent occupational stress arising from the ever-increasing workload usually rummaged through, distilled and discerned by lawyers, in the performance of professional duties to their clients. This, therefore, will elongate the lifespan of legal practitioners vis-a-vis appropriate individual and corporate life insurance policies in place, with attendant improved productivity and financial freedom both to the paralegals and qualified lawyers in view.