How To Get A Job As A Paralegal
A Paralegal, also known as a legal assistant, has duties and responsibilities that are essential to the legal process. Because of the work done by Paralegals, lawyers are able to devote more time to advise clients on their rights and responsibilities, represent them in legal matters and act for them or defend them in court.
Paralegals must be reliable, discreet, well organized, articulate, have good communication skills, and be able to take direction and work as part of a team. They must have an excellent memory, have good investigative abilities, and a good command of the English language. Skill in a second language may be an asset.
Paralegals work under the guidance and direct supervision of a lawyer, or lawyers. Most Paralegals work in law offices, though some work in legal clinics, banks, construction companies, non-profit organizations, government agencies, accounting firms, real estate offices, and engineering firms. Other Paralegals are self-employed.
Paralegals may choose to specialize. Most choose litigation as their area of specialization, while others choose immigration, real estate, bankruptcy, medical systems, contracts, or estates and trusts. Where Paralegals work will depend on their area of specialization. They work at least a forty hour week. The job may necessitate overtime, even weekends, and holidays.
Paralegals perform many duties. Although these may vary depending on the area of specialization, and the size of the office, general duties include conducting basic client interviews, organizing and maintaining client files, preparing written reports and legal arguments, assisting lawyers in court, drafting legal correspondence, conducting research, assembling and analyzing court records relevant to cases, and interviewing witnesses.
By law, Paralegals are not allowed to accept clients, give legal advice, represent clients in court, or set fees.
Education
There are several routes that can be followed on the way to becoming a Paralegal.
Some law offices accept College Graduates, and even High School graduates, and train them as Paralegals. However, such Paralegals may have difficulty in finding other employment opportunities as most law offices prefer their Paralegals to have some formal training. Remember also that those with a better education will receive a higher salary.
For those with a High School Degree, Community Colleges offer a two year Paralegal Training Program, which leads to a Certificate or Associate Degree.
Colleges and Universities also offer a four year program for potential Paralegals. This four year program leads to a Bachelor’s Degree.
Some Universities also offer Master’s Programs for Paralegals.
If you are interested in a career as a Paralegal, take the time to speak to some law offices in your area to find out what they consider the most advantageous route to follow.
Certification
Certification is not essential for employment. However, certification makes you a more desirable employee, so it is in your best interests to become certified as soon as possible.
You eligibility to become certified depends on a combination of your education and your experience. Those who meet the requirements sit for a two day exam. Certification must be renewed periodically.
As society becomes more litigious, there is a growing need for well-trained Paralegals. This is a demanding, but also a very exciting career, for those who qualify.
