Paralegal Careers

If the world of law and justice excites you, but obtaining a law degree is way too much of a time and money commitment for you to handle, especially if you’re changing industries later in life, a paralegal career can be just the right fit for you. With schooling taking from a few months to under two years to complete depending on your program of choice, becoming a paralegal is within reach. And make no mistake -- although they often play supportive roles and might not reap the amount of earnings that lawyers do, paralegals are actually an integral part of the legal field, serving as the backbone of the law office. Plus, you won’t spend years paying back all of those law school student loans. Take a look at what paralegal careers are all about, and the schooling you need to get there…

How do I become a paralegal?
Most paralegals start their careers either by earning an associate degree in paralegal studies, earning a certificate in paralegal studies after completing a four-year degree in another area, or learning on the job. Because competition in the field is keen, going the educational route will better get your foot in the door of your local law office.

Associate degree programs in paralegal studies typically take up to two years to complete. Paralegal certificate programs may take less time to earn, sometimes in as little as a few months, however, you may be required to have previously completed a degree program in another subject.

When choosing a paralegal program, make sure you choose an accredited school. And to further become a standout among the job crowd, you may want to consider enrolling in one of the approximately 260 paralegal training programs across the country that have been approved by the American Bar Association (ABA). This golden seal of approval is not required, but it will certainly improve your chances of employment in a tough economy.

What will I learn in paralegal school?
Paralegal training covers major law topics including law ethics, legal research and writing, legal terminology, computers and the law, civil procedures, torts and personal injury, and more. You’ll also be schooled in the major areas of the law, from real estate to family law to business law. When researching paralegal schools, you should choose one that combines classroom-based lessons in legal theory with practical job skills and hands-on opportunities to learn via internships or clinical experience. It’s in those types of programs that you’ll be able to network with professionals in the field, as well as get a feel for what your paralegal career will entail.

Upon completion of a program at paralegal schools, students should have enough working knowledge to be able to interview and depose clients, prepare and analyze court documents including motions and complaints, search public and official records, conduct legal research, prepare legal briefs and memos, and assist attorneys in legal paperwork.

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