Working as a paralegal or legal assistant enables you to be part of the exciting field of law, without having to spend several years and hundreds of thousands of dollars going through a law school program. The duties of a paralegal are essential in a law office and you may find this type of work very rewarding. In addition, demand for these positions is expected to increase at a high rate over the next decade and average salaries are relatively high, giving you job security and a comfortable lifestyle. If you think the legal support field may be right for you, read on for tips on how to become a paralegal.
The Path to Becoming a Paralegal
For most people, the path to becoming a paralegal or legal assistant begins with education. Paralegal studies programs are available at the associate's, bachelor's and master's degree levels. The right program for you depends on your current situation. If you're just beginning your post-high school education, you're eligible to enter either a two-year or four-year program. Completing a four-year program may lead to better job opportunities and higher salaries in your legal assistant career, but it's certainly possible to get a job after earning a two-year degree. If you'll need to work full- or part-time during your education, a two-year program may offer you the flexibility you need to complete your degree and start your paralegal career path.
If you've already earned a bachelor's degree in another subject and would like to transition to the legal support field, you may be eligible for master's degrees designed for students with little experience in the field. You can find these programs locally or online – just be sure to check the program's accreditation to ensure it's legit. If you aren't able to take one of these programs, you can also pursue a two-year degree at a community or technical college in your area. In fact, many of these programs offer evening classes, so they can be a great choice if you plan to work full-time while transitioning into the paralegal field.
When you're looking for a paralegal education program, check to see if any of your potential schools offer career centers or job placement assistance. These programs can be invaluable when you're just starting off in the legal support field. Typically, schools that offer these programs have counselors on staff that will help you prepare your resume and polish your interview skills before you enter the job market and start fulfilling your legal assistant duties. Larger colleges and universities may also host job fairs or interview sessions where you can connect with potential employers.
Another great option is to look for a program that offers internships in the local community as a part of the degree program. To find out if a potential school offers these programs, check online or contact the school to request a copy of the curriculum. Schools that require internships will generally help you set up these experiences, where you'll work part-time in a legal office while still going to school. Participating in an internship can be a great experience to add to your resume, and may even give you a foot in the door of a potential employer following your graduation.
Once you've begun to establish yourself in the paralegal field, you may want to consider a voluntary certification program through an organization like the National Association of Legal Assistants (NALA) or the National Federation of Paralegal Associations (NFPA). To register for these exams, you need to have an approved combination of accredited education and work experience in the field – see each organization's website for more specific details on eligibility requirements. If you successfully complete the exam, you'll be able to use a specific designation on your resume, demonstrating your commitment and expertise to future employers. Completing one or more certification programs may pave the way for better jobs and higher starting salaries.
The Kaplan University Legal Studies program gives you a choice of several courses of study. Gain the training you need to become a paralegal from the comfort of your home with one of the Kaplan University online legal studies programs. Learn more about Kaplan University | Request free info
