In the great words of Vanessa Williams “I got work to do, I got a job bay-beee”. I know, who in the world remembers a Vanessa Williams sing? Well, me. But, anyways as a paralegal, you have a major job of keeping up with deadlines. Whether you work in a law firm or virtually, deadlines are an integral part of your job. Missing a deadline can have serious consequences, so it’s important to develop strategies for managing them. 

Here are some tips to help you deal with deadlines:

1. Keep a calendar: Having a calendar is crucial for managing your deadlines. Make sure you have a calendar that you can easily access and update, whether it’s a physical planner or a digital one. Write down all your deadlines, including court dates and filing deadlines.
2. Prioritize: Not all deadlines are created equal. Some are more important than others, so it’s important to prioritize them. Identify which deadlines are the most urgent and focus on those first. This will help you avoid feeling overwhelmed and ensure that you meet your most critical deadlines.
3. Break tasks into smaller chunks: Large projects or tasks can be overwhelming, but breaking them down into smaller, more manageable chunks can make them easier to tackle. Set smaller deadlines for each chunk of work and track your progress along the way.
4. Communicate with your team: Communication is key when it comes to managing deadlines. Make sure you’re in regular communication with your team and keep them updated on your progress. If you’re struggling to meet a deadline, let them know as soon as possible so that they can help you come up with a solution.
5. Manage your time: Time management is essential when it comes to meeting deadlines. Make sure you’re using your time efficiently by prioritizing your tasks and minimizing distractions. Avoid multitasking and focus on one task at a time to ensure that you’re using your time effectively.
6. Stay organized: Being organized is crucial for meeting deadlines. Keep all your documents and files organized and easily accessible so that you can quickly find what you need when you need it. Use tools like folders, labels, and color-coding to keep everything in order.
7. Stay up-to-date on industry news: Staying up-to-date on industry news and changes in regulations can help you anticipate upcoming deadlines and stay ahead of the game. Make sure you’re regularly checking industry publications and attending relevant events to stay informed.

By following these tips, you can effectively manage your deadlines as a paralegal in any setting. Remember, communication, organization, and time management are key to meeting your deadlines and succeeding in your role.