Can paralegals handle their own cases or do only lawyers handle cases?

I know paralegals do background info on cases for lawyers but can they have their own cases, perhaps on the side, maybe in order to make partner or to become a 'full pledged' lawyer in time with cases under their belt? Is it possible?Can paralegals handle their own cases or do only lawyers handle cases?
I see from your other question you are asking in the context of writing a book. If you want a paralegal to be doing work independently, non-lawyers can be authorized by some administrative agencies (SSA and NY Workers' Comp come to mind) to represent individuals appearing before those agencies. In the case of the NY WCB, I believe it's as a ';licensed representative.'; If a paralegal were to be employed by a law firm, it is unlikely that they would do this on the side - it would be a part of his or her job to do this.





Hope that helps.Can paralegals handle their own cases or do only lawyers handle cases?
No
They can do all the work, but they cannot get the big bucks. Better go to law school if you want the green backs.
Nope.





Paralegals are glorfied secretaries.
nope
No, they have no standing in court, and are not members of the Bar or court!





However, in Vermont, the only remaining state, you can become a lawyer by interning in a law practice!
Well depends on how you read that question, if your wondering if a paralegal was on trial could they handle their own case, yes, its your constitutional right to have a representative of your own choosing, including yourself. If you mean representing somebody else as a lawyer no, you have the right to choose your own representative in a court of law but that representation cannot claim to be an attorney at law/lawyer unless they are on the Bar.