How to Choose an Online Degree Program if You Want to be a Paralegal

With the increasing trend of litigation, the US Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts the paralegal field will grow over 30% within the next 10 years. For those wishing to study and learn at home choosing to enter an online program can be a little confusing. How does one choose the right school?
There currently are over 600 online and distance programs available through community colleges, private schools and universities. There are many programs to choose from and different levels of education can be obtained. Although actual education is not required, it is becoming desirable by many employees. Choosing a school can be downright daunting and confusing.

Job description

A paralegal is an important part of the legal system. With private health insurance involved in many litigation cases, a paralegal's duties cuts costs for both insurance companies and clients. Their services fill the gap between astronomical attorney's fees, to affordable. A paralegal may conduct client interviews, write and prepare legal documents, legal research and also managing, analyzing and organizing office tasks. They may also be present for legal procedures such as the execution of a will, real estate closings, depositions and various legal proceedings. A paralegal does not give legal advice or set legal fees.

Employers

Law firms are not the only employers available for a paralegal to work with. There are many other possible employers such as the government,. corporations, non profit groups, banks and real estate and title insurance companies. Tele commuting seems to be in the infancy stage as far as paralegal work goes, but it's possible to even find work at home opportunities. This saves employers space and overhead.

Types of degree programs

It's possible to study at home and obtain different levels of education in the paralegal field. Distance learning requires that an individual be disciplined and self motivated. It's also ideal for those that already work a full time job.

Here is a summary of the different programs being offered by many schools;

Associates- This is typically a program that offers 60-70 semester units. Some programs also offer the opportunity to test for a paralegal certificate upon completion. An associate program offers the option to continue your education and transfer or apply your credits to a 4 year degree.

Baccalaureate- This program typically consists of 120-130 semester units and is offered through a 4 year program.

Masters- Some schools offer an advanced paralegal degree. This typically consists of those interested in careers in administration or legal studies.

Certificate- A certificate can benefit those with a degree in another field wishing to enter the paralegal profession.

Working as a paralegal without a degree or formal education

It is possible to become a paralegal without any degree or certification. Many firms or companies will train people 'in house' for a legal secretary or paralegal position. Since there is no regulation this is possible.

Since the field is currently unregulated this will vary from employer to employer. In the 1960's and 1970's many paralegals trained on the job. With many of them retiring these employers need to replace them with trained paralegals. This is where the need for trained paralegal's comes in. Law firms, corporations and insurance companies are setting their standards higher and demanding qualified paralegal's.

Certification

It is not required to work in the paralegal field but it is becoming desirable by employers to hire paralegals with training and a certificate in hand.

Regulation

The paralegal field is currently unregulated. Legislation is being pushed to license paralegals. There may very well be state or national regulatory and or standards set eventually. This would establish standard education in the paralegal profession.

What to look for in an online school or program

Comparing schools can be confusing. Here's what you want to look for in an online school or program;
ABA (American Bar Association), AAPE (American Association of Legal Assistants, or NALA (National Association of Legal Assistants) approved- ABA approval is voluntary. There are many school that are reputable that have not sought out ABA approval. If the school of your choice is not ABA approved you will want to make sure they are accredited in the event of a transfer. Many schools are NALA approve which is run by the ABA standards. The NALA offers the most common certification in the US at this point.

You will also want to take into consideration who the faculty is at your school. Also what kind of support and student servies does your school or program offer? Are the accredited? What are the graduation requirements? What is your school's mission?

A paralegal career can be extremely rewarding and satisfying to many who enter the field each year. By choosing your school you will have taken the first step on your path as a paralegal.