During a trial or hearing, which action is a fundamental skill for a paralegal?

• A. Sits silently.
• B. Presents admissions effectively.
• C. Drafts a settlement agreement.
• D. Issues subpoenas.

Answer: (D)

During a trial or hearing, securing the evidence needed to make your case is essential. Issuing subpoenas is the action that directly helps you obtain that evidence by compelling a witness to attend or by requiring the production of documents. A paralegal must be able to identify which witnesses or documents are critical, prepare the subpoena request, and handle service and compliance with the rules and timelines. Without the ability to issue subpoenas, key testimony or records may be missing or delayed, weakening the case presented to the tribunal.

Sitting silently doesn’t advance the case, and while presenting admissions or drafting a settlement agreement are relevant tasks, they don’t by themselves ensure you have the necessary evidence to resolve the matter. Subpoenas, by enabling access to crucial witnesses and documents, are a fundamental procedural skill in a hearing context.