[JohnFiorentino]

I think, my dear Asmodeus you seem to me more concerned with who is "authorized" to do something, than who may be right.

Firstly, the differences between lawyers and paralegals is not the issue here, and quite frankly is irrelevant to any discussion re: Flight800.

Second, a paralegal, under the supervision of an attorney, may perform ANY function of an attorney, with the following exceptions: give legal advice, set fees, or represent a client in court, (Except under certain circumstances, where allowed by law)

Third, most lawyers routinely rely on paralegals, and paralegal investigators to research all aspects of the law, and in many cases all relevant aspects of the case in toto.
The overwhelming majority of investigatory and fact finding work performed prior to trial is performed by paralegals. This information is then assembled, reviewed and discussed with the attorney. Many paralegals possess either education or experience in other fields, which make them invaluable in the legal investigatory process. Lawyers are mainly concerned with the INTERPRETATION of LAWS.

Fourth, paralegals, although prohibited from TAKING depositions are usually the primary source for questions asked during depositions. Paralegals ROUTINELY brief and prepare transcripts of relevant issues, case laws and questions to be asked during trials to attorneys.

Fifth, ask ANY GOOD lawyer, who really knows more about the case at hand, you or your paralegal (and perhaps there are some attorneys reading this who may wish to comment) and they will invariably say, "my paralegal."

Sixth, many paralegals, in fact MANAGE ENTIRE LAW FIRMS. In my particular case, the attorneys at my law firm actually work for me, (with the exception of the partners). I don't know of any case where your MD--Nurse analogy applies in this instance.

[Asmodeus]

"a paralegal, under the supervision of an attorney, may perform ANY function of an attorney, with the following exceptions: give legal advice, set fees, or represent a client in court, (Except under certain circumstances, where allowed by law)."

Some law office secretaries do it all the time too.

Are the lawyers supposed to charge clients the same hourly rate for the hired help services that they charge for their own time?

Lots of lawyers do.