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The following is written by and according to the U.S. Department of Labor and particular to the education and training required for a paralegal.
Most entrants have an associate degree in paralegal studies, or a bachelor's degree coupled with a certificate in paralegal studies. Some employers train paralegals on the job.
Education and training. There are several ways to become a paralegal. The most common is through a community college paralegal program that leads to an associate degree. Another common method of entry, mainly for those who already have a college degree, is earning a certificate in paralegal studies. A small number of schools offer a bachelor's and master's degree in paralegal studies. Finally, some employers train paralegals on the job.
Associate and bachelor's degree programs usually combine paralegal training with courses in other academic subjects. Certificate programs vary significantly, with some only taking a few months to complete. Most certificate programs provide intensive paralegal training for individuals who already hold college degrees.
About 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 employers do not require such approval, graduation from an ABA-approved program can enhance employment opportunities. Admission requirements vary. Some require certain college courses or a bachelor's degree, while others accept high school graduates or those with legal experience. A few schools require standardized tests and personal interviews.
The quality of paralegal training programs varies; some programs may include job placement services. If possible, prospective students should examine the experiences of recent graduates before enrolling in a paralegal program. Any training program usually includes courses in legal research and the legal applications of computers. 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 corporate legal department, a legal aid organization, a bank, or a government agency. Internship experience is an asset when one is seeking a job after graduation.
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 or criminal justice. Nursing or health administration experience is valuable in personal injury law practices.
Certification and other qualifications. Although most employers do not require certification, earning a voluntary certification 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. Those who pass the exam may use the Certified Legal Assistant (CLA) or Certified Paralegal (CP) credential. The NALA also offers the Advanced Paralegal Certification for experienced paralegals who want to specialize. The Advanced Paralegal Certification program is a curriculum based program offered on the internet.
The American Alliance of Paralegals, Inc. offers the American Alliance Certified Paralegal (AACP) credential, a voluntary certification program. Paralegals seeking the AACP certification must possess at least five years of paralegal experience and meet one of the three educational criteria. Certification must be renewed every two years, including the completion 18 hours of continuing education.
In addition, the National Federation of Paralegal Association offers the Registered Paralegal (RP) designation to paralegals with a bachelor's degree and at least 2 years of experience who pass an exam. To maintain the credential, workers must complete 12 hours of continuing education every 2 years. The National Association for Legal Professionals offers the Professional Paralegal (PP) certification to those who pass a four-part exam. Recertification requires 75 hours of continuing education.
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. In fact, all paralegals in California must complete 4 hours of mandatory continuing education in either general law or in a specialized area of 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.
Advancement. 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.
For the source and more detailed information concerning your request, click on the related links section (U.S. Department of Labor) indicated directly below this answer section.
What else can I help you with?
Where can I go to school to become a paralegal?
You can become a paralegal by enrolling in a community college, university, or online institution that offers a paralegal studies program. Look for programs accredited by the American Bar Association (ABA) or approved by the American Association for Paralegal Education (AAfPE) for a quality education. Additionally, some schools also offer certificate programs for aspiring paralegals.
How much does it cost to take a paralegal training course online?
Paralegal education can last for as little as nine months or as long as two years. Shorter programs typically lead to a paralegal certificate or diploma. Some paralegal or legal assistant certificate programs are designed for people who already have a degree in another field or previous legal experience, and these usually require the least time to complete.
Where could one take a Paralegal course online?
You can take a Paralegal course online through various institutions such as community colleges, universities, and online learning platforms like Coursera or edX. Make sure to choose a program that is accredited and meets your career goals.
How to Get Involved in Paralegal Studies?
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, paralegals face a promising job prospect as the field is growing at a rate faster than other industries. The job nature of a paralegal include helping attorneys in trail and hearing preparation, preparing written legal reports, and filing draft pleadings. The easiest and most efficient way to get involved in paralegal studies is to enroll in a community college program. These programs usually take two years and will lead to an associate degree in paralegal studies. You may choose to enroll in a campus-based program or online one, based on your learning style and schedule. For example, if you have good Internet access and enjoy learning at your own pace, you may enroll in an online course. However, if you learn better by interacting with your peers and instructors, you may want to attend paralegal classes in person. On the other hand, you may also pursue a paralegal certificate, which will take around one year. However, do bear in mind that larger law firms prefer paralegals who have a degree. Before you choose to enroll in a paralegal studies program, make sure that it is provided by a reputable education institute as the quality of paralegal programs tends to vary. Choose a program that is accredited by the American Bar Association. Currently, 260 programs are accredited. Some law firms do not recognize unaccredited courses. Try to enroll in a program which offers job placement service for its graduates. Make use of any internship opportunities the program provide, as you will gain valuable experience and become more employable when you graduate. If you already have an associate or bachelor’s degree in another field, you may take the Paralegal Advanced Competency Exam or the Certified Legal Assistant Exam to demonstrate to potential employers that you have already developed the abilities to become a professional paralegal. Not only will the certification boost your earning potential, it will also give you more seniority over other paralegals.
The Four Types of Paralegal Degrees?
A paralegal, also known as a legal assistant, is as vital to a lawyer as a nurse is to a doctor. The paralegal is responsible for many tasks to assist the lawyer in their cases. A paralegal can investigate the information for a hearing, trial or closing. They can also interview and prepare clients for hearings and trials. Depending on how large the law firm is will determine the salary of a paralegal. In May of 2004, the median salary of a paralegal was anywhere from $31,040 to $49,950. This salary also depends on the level of education and degree obtained. There are different levels of education to become a paralegal. The four types of degrees are associate’s degree, certificate, diploma and an online degree. The associate’s degree can be a great way to begin a paralegal career. With an associate’s degree, the expected pay is $8,000 more than someone with a high school diploma. Obtaining an associate’s degree when already in the field can expect to receive a pay raise. A certificate in paralegal is a good option for those who are looking to further their career. Certification can be done either online or on campus so it is convenient to take the course while still working full time. In some cases a law firm will require a paralegal to maintain up-to-date certification. A diploma program is the best choice for someone who did not complete high school. Most employers require a diploma to be able to work. There are now many colleges that allow students to take the courses online. Having a diploma is vital in becoming a paralegal. Getting an online degree to become a paralegal is becoming widely popular. This is the best way for someone who has to maintain a full time job and go to school at the same time. This type of degree is becoming more common among adults that want a career change or advancement. Whichever type of degree that is chosen, there is a course for everyone in every type of situation. Paralegal schools are available to anyone who aspires to become a paralegal or stay current in the field.
Where can I take online paralegal courses?
There are a number of places that you can go to take paralegal courses online. You can go to Carrington at www.carrington.edu/California-Online or nationalparalegal.edu/.
What courses must one take to be considered a master of general studies?
Courses one must take to be considered a master of general studies are Bachelor - Liberal Arts and Bachelor - History.
Is a college degree required to get a paralegal job?
A college degree is not required to get a paralegal job. A paralegal needs plenty of experience. It's also good for the paralegal to take some courses or classes.
Can I take the paralegal course online to get the credit or must this be done in person?
Yes, you can take the paralegal course online and all the requirements about the paralegal course go to following link. http://liberalarts.iupui.edu/political_science/index.php/paralegal
Where can I go to school to become a paralegal?
You can become a paralegal by enrolling in a community college, university, or online institution that offers a paralegal studies program. Look for programs accredited by the American Bar Association (ABA) or approved by the American Association for Paralegal Education (AAfPE) for a quality education. Additionally, some schools also offer certificate programs for aspiring paralegals.
How long does it take to become a paralegeal?
Since the paralegal profession is not that strict with education requirements needed for one to get the job. The answer to "How long it takes to become a paralegal" is somewhere from six months (when you take short courses) to four years and even more (when you decide to acquire a degree before getting to the job).Take accredited courses and remember, the higher the level of education, the better since the profession is growing and the competition is becoming stiff!
What courses do you take to open your own cafe?
There are many types of courses one might take to open their own cafe. Some include accounting courses, general business courses, and marketing courses.
What classes are you required to take to become a paralegal?
The coursework necessary to obtain a paralegal certificate or Associate's degree varies. If you wish to obtain your Associate's degree or certificate in paralegal studies, most programs require you to take four core legal courses: torts, contracts, legal ethics, and legal research & civil litigation. It should be noted that it is not necessary to have certification to become a paralegal. It will vary by employer - some may require certification, while others may be satisfied with a certain level of experience. You may also consider online training programs for this field as there are now many approved/accepted providers online. This way, you wont have to look for a school offering paralegal courses.
What high school and university courses must you take to become a pediatrician?
What courses do you take in universities to become a pediatrician?
What types of courses do you have to take to become a General Surgeon?
You will have to take chemistry and biology
Need paralegal for bankruptcy?
It helps to have a lawyer for bankruptcy. A paralegal's main job is to help a person fill out legal forms correctly. Still, a paralegal can practice under a lawyer's license and take care of your bankruptcy that way. You can legally take care of your own bankruptcy. It depends on whether or not it is simple or complex. In the General Motors Bankruptcy, a lot of lawyers got rich.
What sort of prerequisites must you have to take an LPN class?
Some schools will teach you the general stuff concurrently, and require no prerequisites, while other schools will ask that you've taken certain general college courses first.
