What is a paralegal anyway? Do not get intimidated by words… But many career changers miss a great opportunity because they are afraid to ask a basic question “What is a paralegal?” If you are looking for a career with the earning potential between $44,000.00 to $100,000.00 per year, a paralegal (aka legal assistant) may be the perfect opportunity. Many paralegals describe their work as fast, fun, and fulfilling. Most states require a two-year degree to become a legal assistant, and there are grants, job re-training programs and even loans available to those who are interested in working with the law.
What is a Paralegal as a member of a legal team? A paralegal is an assistant to those who run a law firm. Often times, paralegals find themselves writing wills, editing/proof-reading legal documents, and even advising attorneys about specifics in various legal matters. A good analogy would be the role of nurse and doctor. While the doctor is the medical professional, many of us understand the crucial role nurses play in the overall care and health of a patient. The legal assistant will at the same time serve a vitally important role in the legal profession.
What is a paralegal’s role inside a law firm? The role has become increasingly important over the last decade and the job outlook is very positive with an estimated 33% increase in demand for paralegals between now and 2018. Some paralegals work in government employment, some for law firms, and many for small practices. Work will vary depending in the specialty areas from oil companies and estate planning to real estate and criminal law. Once a paralegal is trained, they may choose a variety of different niche categories, or simply be a jack-of-all trades.
Training made easy. There are no official licensing programs for paralegals. However, most states require a registration or professional certificate. One of the best kept secrets about paralegal training is the coursework. While some many choose the traditional route of attending classes at a local business college, many have found online classes to be cheaper, more convenient, and just helpful. The beauty of online classes is they can be taken at your leisure, when the kids are off to school, while you are sipping a coffee, sitting in your pajamas. Many can relate to the bustle of coming home from one job and simply seeking the most convenient way to get ahead.
One may ask, what is a paralegal’s professional designation? There national organizations which offer professional regulation of standards including the National Association of Legal Assistants (NALA) and the National Federation of Paralegal Associations. The NALA offers a designation of Certified Legal Assistant (CLA) and even a Certified Paraprofessional (CP). This designation requires a two-day exam. On the other hand, the National Federation of Paralegal Associations offers a four hour exam over a wide variety of topics. Upon completion, the designation of Paralegal Advanced Competency Exam or PACE-Registered Paralegals is awarded to successful examiners. This is noted with a RP designation.
Do not let money, or a lack thereof get in your way. Most see the paralegal profession as an investment in a new and wonderful career. Whether you have savings or need financing, there are many options available. Some people decide to apply for financial aid through the Federal Government by completing their Federal Financial Aid Forms (Free Application for Federal Student Aid ). Others consider local lending institutions. Many students have had tremendous success with Pell Grants which are based on applicant need.
What is a paralegal going to do with the right job training? As one might expect, there are hot spots for the legal profession all over the United States. Some of the major cities include New York, Washington D.C. Area, Los Angeles, Chicago, Atlanta, Houston, Boston, Cleveland, Philadelphia, Dallas and Phoenix. But, don’t be fooled by the lure of big cities, as small town in Georgia, Alaska, Iowa, and even Arizona.