Legal secretaries are skilled clerical workers who assist attorneys. Though they perform many typical secretarial chores, such as typing and filing, they're also familiar with legal terminology, documents, procedures and research. They’re an important part of the team, in the intense world of the legal profession. Legal secretaries prepare complicated documents like subpoenas, complaints and motions that have specialized formats, and specific timetables for filing. They may spend hours in law libraries, reading legal journals and assisting with research, such as verifying quotes and citations in legal briefs. A 40-hour workweek is common, and overtime is normal. Most law firms prefer a college degree with coursework in a legal secretarial or related program. Experienced legal secretaries can earn certification through professional organizations--or train to become paralegals, the next step up the ladder in a law office.