How to Answer: If a lawyer gives you an assignment at 4:50 p.m. and needs it by tomorrow morning but that it's not overtime billable, how do you handle the situation?
Advice and answer examples written specifically for a Paralegal job interview.
28. If a lawyer gives you an assignment at 4:50 p.m. and needs it by tomorrow morning but that it's not overtime billable, how do you handle the situation?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Tasks in the legal industry are not always limited to 8-5 working days. The interviewer wants to gauge your comfort level of working evenings and weekends.
Written by Nicole H. on January 17th, 2022
Focus Your Answer On
This is an opportunity to highlight your time management and communication skills. You may also want to clarify if it is an option to leave the office and work on the task at home later in the evening or if the attorney would expect you to stay at the office.
Written by Nicole H. on January 17th, 2022
Answer Example
"I understand that in a law firm, urgent tasks come up that need attention outside of typical work hours. If working past my normal hours for the day is not overtime billable, perhaps you could clarify the firm's policy on flexing hours. I would expect that in lieu of overtime, I would be able to come in later or leave early on another day during that pay period."
Written by Nicole H. on January 17th, 2022