The National University Podcast

The National University Podcast


How AI is Shaping the Future of Paralegals

April 01, 2025

Join us for an engaging exploration into the transformative role of AI in the legal field, specifically focusing on how it is reshaping the responsibilities of paralegals. We are joined by esteemed guests Joseph Vallette, Nancy Golden, and Brian Hance from National University, who share their expertise on integrating AI into the paralegal studies curriculum. Discover how AI is influencing the way paralegals approach tasks, shifting the focus towards those requiring human judgment, and how this technological evolution is being embraced in educational settings to prepare students for a rapidly changing legal landscape.


Listen in as we navigate the challenges and opportunities presented by AI in law office management. Our conversation underscores AI's potential to enhance traditional methods, offering a supplementary tool for generating ideas and refining procedures without replacing human expertise. We highlight the importance of developing critical thinking skills to craft precise AI prompts, ensuring the effective use of AI while maintaining the integrity of legal practices. The evolving roles of paralegals are also discussed, emphasizing diverse career paths that include traditional roles, e-discovery, and business administration.


Finally, we explore the role of AI in enhancing critical thinking and education, both within legal studies and broader academic contexts. Our guests share real-world examples of AI's impact, including its role in improving efficiency in small to medium-sized law firms and creating interactive learning experiences that transcend traditional textbooks. Discover how educators at National University are guiding students to maximize AI's potential, fostering an environment where students are equipped with cutting-edge skills and prepared for the dynamic demands of the job market.


Alternative: This podcast episode explores the transformative impact of AI on the role of paralegals and legal education. The discussion includes insights from experienced legal professionals on how AI is integrated into the curriculum at National University, the challenges faced by students and instructors, and the importance of maintaining critical thinking skills in an AI-enhanced learning environment. The conversation highlights the need for responsible AI use and the evolving landscape of law office management. This conversation explores the integration of AI in legal education, focusing on its impact on research, critical thinking, administrative efficiency, and innovative teaching methods. The speakers discuss the importance of prompt engineering, the role of AI in enhancing student engagement, and the necessity for students to learn how to effectively use AI tools in their future legal careers. They emphasize the need for educators to adapt to these changes and prepare students for an AI-driven legal landscape.