💼 What Are Virtual Paralegal Services?
NextChapter’s Virtual Paralegal Services provide a flexible and efficient way for attorneys to outsource bankruptcy case preparation to qualified, experienced paralegals.
Our Virtual Paralegals (VPs) are independent contractors who work through the NextChapter platform to help streamline case preparation, document organization, petition drafting and filing.
To learn more about the vetting process of paralegals in the network visit our How are the VPs recruited and vetted? article.
⚙️ How It Works
Purchase a Virtual Paralegal Package
Choose from one of our annual packages. Each package provides a set number of case credits you can use to hire Virtual Paralegals for specific cases.Assign a Paralegal to a Case
Within your case in NextChapter, scroll to Hire a Virtual Paralegal, complete the case details, and submit your request. Once accepted, a case credit will be deducted from your plan.Paralegal Acceptance & Introduction
Once a paralegal accepts your case, they will contact you within 24 hours (*times may vary) to introduce themselves and schedule a short introductory call. This call helps establish your workflow preferences, communication style, and expectations for the case.Case Collaboration
You’ll collaborate directly with your assigned Virtual Paralegal throughout the preparation process. They will draft and organize case materials in NextChapter for your review and final approval before filing.
Interested? Check out this article about Pricing Packages.
🧾 What Virtual Paralegals Can Do
NextChapter Virtual Paralegals assist with the administrative and drafting side of bankruptcy preparation, including:
Drafting bankruptcy petitions, schedules, and Means Tests
Uploading and managing documents in the Client Document Storage Folder
Assisting with communication and document collection (if authorized by the attorney)
To learn more about what tasks fall within the Virtual Paralegal role and what they are not authorized to perform - visit our Virtual Paralegal Responsibilities Outlined article.
⚖️ Attorney Responsibilities
Attorneys remain responsible for all legal decisions and must ensure compliance with professional obligations, including:
Obtaining debtor consent for outsourcing work to Virtual Paralegals
Providing accurate and complete case information
Reviewing and approving all drafted materials before filing
You can find the complete list of attorney expectations in our Virtual Paralegal - Attorney Responsibilities article.
⏰ Availability & Workload
If you have an emergency case with a deadline under 48 hours, please contact paralegal@nextchapterbk.com before purchasing to confirm availability.
To help us manage paralegal workloads effectively, please reach out in advance if you plan to assign more than five cases within a 30-day period.
💳 Refund Policy
All Virtual Paralegal Service purchases are final.
By completing your purchase, you acknowledge that no refunds will be issued, as outlined in our Virtual Paralegal Services Disclaimer article.
💬 Need Help?
If you have questions about the process or want to learn how Virtual Paralegals can support your firm’s workflow, reach out to our Account Management team at sales@nextchapterbk.com.