Pursuing a Career as a Paralegal or Legal Assistant

If you are considering a legal career, becoming a paralegal or legal assistant could be a great choice. Paralegals are hired by many organizations including private law firms, corporate legal departments, banks, hospitals, insurance companies, real estate and professional trade organizations.

Job Description

A paralegal or legal assistant's duties can vary depending upon the size of the organization. Paralegals often are responsible for legal research for the attorney for cases that will be presented in court. You may also be responsible for maintaining client files and preparing legal documentation. Some legal assistants may contact clients directly. Other duties may include assisting in investigations and litigation preparation, client arbitration and handling escrow accounts.

Salary and Job Outlook

The need for paralegals and legal assistants continues to grow. The United States Bureau of Labor and Statistics reports that there will be a 22% growth rate for the occupation through 2016. In 2008, there were 263,800 paralegals employed in the United States. Wages can vary between $36,080 and $58,310 depending upon experience and duties. Many paralegals receive bonuses, paid vacation, insurance and paid sick leave.

Education

There are several venues you can consider for training to become a paralegal. Community colleges offer paralegal associate's degrees. You can also pursue a two or 4-year degree program at a university such as the Associate of Science in Paralegal Studies degree or the Bachelor of Science in Paralegal Studies. With these degree programs, your studies will concentrate in legal terminology, legal writing and torts. You can also expect to study divorce mediation, law office management, health law and dispute resolution.

Although certification for paralegals or legal assistants is not mandatory, there are several professional organizations where certification may be obtained for paralegals including: The National Association of Legal Assistance, Inc. (NALA), The American Alliance of Paralegals, Inc. (AAPI), and The National Federal of Paralegal Associations, Inc. (NFPA). The American Bar Association (ABA) does not certify paralegals but does approve paralegal education programs.

Sources:

Paralegals and Legal Assistants

ABA Standing Committee on Paralegals Career Information

Paralegalese: Pursuing a Career as a Paralegal