Which of the following best describes the role of a paralegal?

The role of a paralegal is primarily focused on assisting lawyers by conducting substantive legal work. This includes tasks such as researching legal precedents, drafting legal documents, preparing cases for trial, and communicating with clients. Paralegals play a crucial role in enhancing the efficiency of legal practices by providing essential support that allows lawyers to focus on representing clients in court and handling complex legal matters.

While performing investigative work and managing a law office's finances are important tasks that can be involved in the legal field, they don't encapsulate the primary function of a paralegal. Advocacy in court is also not part of a paralegal's responsibilities, as they are not licensed to practice law and cannot represent clients in court. Instead, their focus is on the preparatory and supportive aspects of legal work that facilitate the attorney's representation efforts.