| Aspect | Per Attorney | Paralegal |
|---|
| Required Credentials | Law degree, bar admission | Associate degree or paralegal certificate |
| Work Environment | Law firms, corporate legal departments | Law firms, legal support offices |
| Primary Responsibilities | Legal advice, client representation | Legal research, document preparation |
Per Attorneys are licensed lawyers who provide legal advice and represent clients, requiring a law degree and bar admission. Paralegals support attorneys by conducting research and preparing documents but do not offer legal advice or represent clients. Both roles are essential in legal settings, but Per Attorneys have a higher level of responsibility and credentials.