Some possible jobs within this career area are:
Legal and paralegal jobs do require training and certification because people who work in these fields handle sensitive matters. Depending on your goals, you could receive the training you need as little as one year. Typical degree and certification programs include:
- Job-specific Certificate
- Associate’s Degree
- Bachelor’s Degree
- Juris Doctor (Law Degree)
- Master’s Degree
- PhD
Legal jobs are continually growing and available, but job openings can become competitive when state and local budgets are cut. Many legal jobs are tied to local taxes, so be sure to continue your education and training to remain competitive in the job market.
Most jobs in the legal world take between one and three years for primary certification. A career as a lawyer can take up to seven years for complete certification and training – plus lawyers have to pass their state’s bar exam.
How to Become a Paralegal
A paralegal works in a law office and assumes many duties of the attorney, such as case investigation, researching appropriate case laws and decisions, analyzing information, writing reports, and preparing pleadings, affidavits, motions, and arguments during a trial. Although a paralegal performs many duties of an attorney they are not allowed to give legal advice, set fees, or present cases in a court of law.
Paralegal Career Education
The most common path to become a paralegal is to earn an Associate’s degree, which is a two-year program. Typical coursework includes Introduction to the Law, Contracts, Torts and Personal Injury, Legal Research, and Writing and Civil Litigation as well as specialty classes in the law area of choice such as Criminal Law, Business Law, Real Property, and Domestic relations.
Some employers prefer to hire those who already hold a degree and have completed a certification program, which can be completed in less than a year. If you’re considering a certificate program look for one that offers internships and job placement; it’s also a good idea to examine employment of recent graduates before you enter the program. If you have previous experience in a specific field such as real estate, insurance, or accounting you may find an internship before beginning your paralegal training.
Paralegal Salaries
Paralegal salaries vary widely depending on training, education, experience, employment, and geographical location. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics in 2008 the median annual paralegal salary was $46,120. The lowest ten percent, reflecting entry-level positions as well as the least amount of education, earned under $29,260. The highest ten percent of paralegal salaries was over $73,450 per year. Many paralegals also receive performance bonuses; most positions also offer full benefits as well as reimbursement for further education. (Salary data retrieved 7/11/11)
To get started in a rewarding career as a paralegal, find a training program now!