I am an RP (Registered Paralegal) with over ten years of paralegal experience.
This lens will provide you with information about pursuing a paralegal career and separate the "legit" educational programs from the fly-by-nights.
When choosing a paralegal program, look for American Bar Association approval of the curriculum. This is as close as you'll get to an objective stamp of approval. Also look for programs where the instructors are licensed attorneys.
Once you earn a paralegal degree (some colleges offer a BA in Paralegal Studies) or certificate, a whole world of job opportunities is available. Working environments range from law firms, to courts, to corporations and government agencies.
10 Reasons to Become a Paralegal
- Between 2006 and 2014, employment for paralegals is expected to grow 27% or more (much faster than average) according to the US Dept. of Labor.
- You can move around the country and the employment outlook will be good.
- Workplace opportunities are varied (law firms, banks, corporations, real estate companies, state and federal government offices, courts).
- Daily work is varied.
- Chances to advance are good, if you do good work.
- Many paralegals earn bonuses.
- Once you learn a specialty area, you can become a freelancer and start your own business.
- You constantly increase your knowledge of the law.
- You work with smart, professional people.
- You have access to the newest technology (hardware, software, office equipment).
Paralegal Education - from the US Dept. of Labor
Occupational Outlook Handbook (2006/7 edition)
There are several ways to become a paralegal. The most common is through a community college paralegal program that leads to an associate's degree. The other common method of entry, mainly for those who already have a college degree, is through a program that leads to a certification in paralegal studies. A small number of schools also offer bachelor's and master's degrees in paralegal studies. Some employers train paralegals on the job, hiring college graduates with no legal experience or promoting experienced legal secretaries. Other entrants have experience in a technical field that is useful to law firms, such as a background in tax preparation for tax and estate practice or in criminal justice, nursing, or health administration for personal injury practice.An estimated 1,000 colleges and universities, law schools, and proprietary schools offer formal paralegal training programs. Approximately 260 paralegal programs are approved by the American Bar Association (ABA). Although many programs do not require such approval, graduation from an ABA-approved program can enhance one's employment opportunities. The requirements for admission to these programs vary. Some require certain college courses or a bachelor's degree, others accept high school graduates or those with legal experience, and a few schools require standardized tests and personal interviews.
Paralegal programs include 2-year associate degree's programs, 4-year bachelor's degree programs, and certificate programs that can take only a few months to complete. Most certificate programs provide intensive and, in some cases, specialized paralegal training for individuals who already hold college degrees, while associate's and bachelor's degree programs usually combine paralegal training with courses in other academic subjects. The quality of paralegal training programs varies; the better programs usually include job placement services. Programs generally offer courses introducing students to the legal applications of computers, including how to perform legal research on the Internet. Many paralegal training programs also offer an internship in which students gain practical experience by working for several months in a private law firm, the office of a public defender or attorney general, a bank, a corporate legal department, a legal aid organization, or a government agency. Experience gained in internships is an asset when one is seeking a job after graduation.
Paralegal Certifications - From the US Dept. of Labor
Occupational Outlook Handbook (2006-7 edition)
Although most employers do not require certification, earning a voluntary certificate from a professional society may offer advantages in the labor market. The National Association of Legal Assistants (NALA), for example, has established standards for certification requiring various combinations of education and experience. Paralegals who meet these standards are eligible to take a 2-day examination, given three times each year at several regional testing centers. Those who pass this examination may use the Certified Legal Assistant (CLA) designation. The NALA also offers an advanced paralegal certification for those who want to specialize in other areas of the law. In addition, the Paralegal Advanced Competency Exam, administered through the National Federation of Paralegal Associations, offers professional recognition to paralegals with a bachelor's degree and at least 2 years of experience. Those who pass this examination may use the Registered Paralegal (RP) designation.Paralegals must be able to document and present their findings and opinions to their supervising attorney. They need to understand legal terminology and have good research and investigative skills. Familiarity with the operation and applications of computers in legal research and litigation support also is important. Paralegals should stay informed of new developments in the laws that affect their area of practice. Participation in continuing legal education seminars allows paralegals to maintain and expand their knowledge of the law.
Because paralegals frequently deal with the public, they should be courteous and uphold the ethical standards of the legal profession. The National Association of Legal Assistants, the National Federation of Paralegal Associations, and a few States have established ethical guidelines for paralegals to follow.
Paralegals usually are given more responsibilities and require less supervision as they gain work experience. Experienced paralegals who work in large law firms, corporate legal departments, or government agencies may supervise and delegate assignments to other paralegals and clerical staff. Advancement opportunities also include promotion to managerial and other law-related positions within the firm or corporate legal department. However, some paralegals find it easier to move to another law firm when seeking increased responsibility or advancement.
Links
- American Institute for Paralegal Studies
- Since 1978. 25 credit hours. Distance learning. Nationally accredited school, offering training for students wishing to become paralegals or legal assistants.
- Kaplan Professional Training Programs, Inc.
- Paralegal training in Arizona, California, Colorado, Iowa, Indiana, Maryland, Maine, Nebraska, New Hampshire, Nevada Tennessee, and Texas. Approved by the American Bar Association.
- Paralegal Certificate Program -- The Washington Online Learning Institute
- Provides information about the Washington Online Learning Institutes programs.
- Mississippi University for Women
- Since 1979. American Bar Association approved. Note: Institution is coed. Excellent list of links and information concerning paralegal education and the program at MUFW.
- Para-Legal Institute
- Paralegal certificate program located in Fairfax, Virginia. Established in 1974. No distance learning.
- SoYouWanna Be a paralegal?
- Discusses becoming a paralegal. Part of the "Soyouwanna" series.
- Capital University Law School Paralegal
- Columbus, Ohio. The only American Bar Association accredited law school to also have paralegal school. Bachelors degree required for admission. Regionally accredited.
- American Bar Association Approved Legal Assistant Programs
- Listing by state of ABA recognized academic programs for paralegals.
- The Paralegal Institute - An accredited paralegal school.
- Located in Phoenix, Arizona. Provides information about programs in Legal Assistant/Paralegal (LAP), Associate Degree in Paralegal Studies (ADPS), and continuing education. Also offers courses in Medical Transcription.
- Paralegal Training Schools
- Profiles schools offering paralegal training, certification, and degrees.
- Legal Assistant Training: A paralegal program
- ABA approved paralegal program offering full and part time classes in San Diego.
- Syracuse University Legal Assistant / Legal Studies Program
- Provides information about Syracuse's paralegal certificate and bachelor's degree programs.
- Legal Assistant Bachelor's Degree at Eastern Michigan University
- Provides details about EMU's ABA-approved programs in Legal Assistant Studies.
- LearningLaw
- leading edge paralegal schooling, training, education, or certicication materials, study aids, and course work online
- University of San Diego Paralegal Program
- ABA approved program offers full time and part time training as a paralegal. Employment assistance and financial aid are available.
- The Center for Legal Studies
- Provides information about the Center's distance-ed and live paralegal certificate courses.
- ParalegalTech Institute
- Online Paralegal School - Taught by experienced, nationally recognized attorneys. Paralegal certificate and 27 college credits earned in 6 to 12 months.
- Center For Advanced Legal Studies
- Since 1987. American Bar Association Approved. Offers information about the Center's paralegal certificate and AAS Degree programs in Houston, Texas.
- Marywood University Legal Assistant Program
- Describes a Pennsylvania college's American Bar Association (ABA)-approved paralegal education program, as well as its B.A. and A.A. degree programs in the field of Legal Studies. School is a member of the American Association for Paralegal Education (AAfPE).
- Illinois Central College Paralegal Program
- American Bar Association approved. Describes diploma and certificate programs by the East Peoria college.
- San Francisco State University Paralegal Studies
- ABA-approved certificate education offered through SFSU's College of Extended Learning. Program description and curriculum, employment options, faculty and class profiles, and event information provided.
- The Paralegal Learning Center
- An 8 month online paralegal school and certificate training program. Provides an overview of the institution and curriculum, technology, student services and financial aid, and admission information.
- Southwest Paralegal College
- Since 1991. Licensed Lafayette, Louisiana institution; academic calendar, policies, and curricula provided.
- Southwest Paralegal College
- Southwest Paralegal College prepares students for the paralegal and legal secretary profession through the guidance of experienced paralegals, legal secretaries and practicing attorneys.
- Fairleigh Dickinson University- Paralegal Studies Program
- ABA approved Certificate program offering day and evening classes. Two campus locations: Madison, NJ and Teaneck, NJ.
- Blackstone Career Institute
- Blackstone Career Institute offers a Legal Assistant / Paralegal program for those interested in home study.
Paralegal Books on Amazon
Paralegal Career Guide (3rd Edition)
Thorough explanation of career pathways for paralegals.
Avg. Customer Rating: 
Amazon Price: (as of 08/30/2008)
Paralegal Practice & Procedure: A Practical Guide for the Legal Assistant
Practical guide to duties and procedures performed by paralegals. 576 pages.
Avg. Customer Rating: 
Amazon Price: $28.70 (as of 08/30/2008)
The Paralegal Handbook (Paralegal Series)
Information about the paralegal profession. 448 pages.
Avg. Customer Rating: 
Amazon Price: $62.95 (as of 08/30/2008)
Behind the Bar: Inside the Paralegal Profession
A personal account of a paralegal career. 120 pages.
Avg. Customer Rating: 
Amazon Price: $11.65 (as of 08/30/2008)
Professional Associations
- National Federation of Paralegal Associations
- NFPA. Publisher of the Paralegal Reporter. Sponsors of the PACE exam (Paralegal Advanced Competency Exam).
- National Association of Legal Assistants
- NALA. Sponsor of the CLA exam (Certified Legal Assistant).
- American Association for Paralegal Education
- AAfPE. Serving the needs of paralegal educators and institutions offering legal assistant educational programs. Listings of member schools alphabetically and by state.
Certifications
- Certified Legal Assistant (CLA)
- Sponsored by the National Association of Legal Assistants (NALA). Designation can also be "CP" for those who prefer to call themselves paralegals.
From their website: "Today, over 12,000 have earned the use of this professional designation and the CLA program is recognized throughout the United States as a means of identifying competent paralegals." - PACE Registered Paralegal (RP)
- Sponsored by the National Federation of Paralegal Associations (NFPA).
The designation is granted after a paralegal passes the Paralegal Advanced Competency Exam (PACE).
Other Information
- Official Opinion on FLSA Status
- Official opinion as to whether paralegals are exempt or non-exempt for overtime.
Paralegal Jobs on Indeed.com
See the opportunities
- Paralegal
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Lockheed Martin Corporation - Bethesda, MD
Martin Corporation seeks a Paralegal to support all... o Microsoft Office Suite. o Paralegal certificate and prior paralegal experience in a corporate legal... ... - Paralegal
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Payless ShoeSource - KS,
review Qualifications - Paralegal certification or equivalent experience as paralegal, a Bachelor's degree is a plus - 3-5 years experience as a paralegal in... ... - PARALEGAL
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Westfield Corporation - Los Angeles, CA
QUALIFICATIONS: · Post high school education and paralegal certification preferred. · Concise grammatical... and/or in-house paralegal experience preferred... ... - Paralegal
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Wachovia Corporation - Saint Louis, MO
251351 Job Title: Paralegal Location: St. Louis,MO... the paralegals are assigned to one Section, the Sections assist each other when necessary and a paralegal... ... - Paralegal
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SAIC - San Diego, CA
Seeking a legal assistant/paralegal with strong commercial leasing experience. Assist legal team supporting Corporate Real Estate in management of company s... ...
