He earned his Bachelor of Laws degree from the University of the Philippines in 1913, and placed second (after future president Manuel Roxas) in the bar examinations that same year.

He was appointed Chief Justice of the Supreme Court ten years later.

Paras made a frugal approach in order to survive and maintain the efficiency of service during the post-war years.

Reyes, during the deliberations of the People v. Hernandez rebellion case, Justice Sabino Padilla (who is the brother of the solicitor general arguing for the government) openly accused Chief Justice Paras of being prejudiced against the government and asking biased questions during the oral argument.

Riled, Parás rebutted, and a heated exchange soon ensued, which would have worsened had not they restrained themselves.