I was interested in becoming a paralegal since I have always loved law. My only question is what kind of degree is it? Is it a 2 or 4 year degree and how do I find a reputable school. Also is it something that if you were to move or relocate to another state that you have to get relicensed for? Thanks!
There are all kinds of degrees available for paralegal students. A 2 year (associate's) degree is enough in many areas, BUT, in larger cities and for larger firms, a 4 year (bachelor's) degree is often necessary. For those who already have at least an associate's degree, there are certificate programs. (Be very careful if you are choosing a certificate program…there are many great ones, such as those approved by the ABA or which are members of AAfPE, but also many that are a waste of your time & money, since there is so little regulation of paralegals).
There are firms that will hire someone with nothing past a HS diploma, but those usually require you to have law office experience.
Some states have either voluntary or mandatory requirements for paralegals…e.g. California and North Carolina. You need to find out what the norm is in the state in which you want to practice. Contact a paralegal association in the state (you can find these through the national associations NFPA and NALA) and go from there to select your school.
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A person can become a paralegal by going through a community college paralegal program or if they already have a college degree then they may earn a certificate in paralegal studies.
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I'm in the unenviable situation of being in my early 30s and lacking a career. I earned my B.A. in History & English at 30 years old. I intended to teach school, but after a brief time in an inner city school, I've completely abandoned this idea.
I have decided I would like to follow the advice given me during my BA by of my college professors, and pursue a career in law.
I'd like to begin working toward a career as a paralegal. Unfortunately, I have no work experience which would qualify me for this profession – before I went back to college I jumped from deadend job to deadend job. After college, I've substitute taught.
What would I need to do to become a paralegal? I've seen any number of variations on certificate programs, associate programs, university tracks, etc. What would be the quickest and most effective way to do this, hopefully avoiding the need for further student loans.
You do not need any credentials to become a paralegal. I became a paralegal right after college having never worked for a law firm before. It was entry level and I had to learn almost everything by myself, but it was work when I needed it.
If you spend the time and money on paralegal studies, it will be great on your resume of course, and you can go into a more specialized firm while commanding a higher starting salary. What you might do is apply for paralegal jobs and in the interview tell the lawyers that you're willing to start working right away, but you'll take part-time classes to build your skill set. There are community college or online courses out there and this way your salary can put yourself through the program without taking loans. Good luck.
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I am trying to decide whether or not I should become a paralegal. I need to talk to someone who was or is a paralegal. Anyone that could give me some good websites to go to or just some expert advice. Please serious inquires only…
Being a paralegal is a very fulfilling job. I love it! Here is a website that gives you a run down of the position, duties, salary, education, etc…
http://www.bls.gov/oco/ocos114.htm
My advice to you, and this is what I did, is to start working in a law office now to gain experience while you go to school. Try to get into an American Bar Association accredited paralegal program for your associates or bachelors degree. Mere certificate programs are a waste of time. A list of ABA accredited programs in your area can be found here…
http://www.abanet.org/legalservices/paralegals/directory/home.html
I do not recommend getting only a certificate or going to a school that is not ABA accredited. Employers will ask!
When you graduate, don't get discouraged. It is hard to find a paralegal job as a recent grad. But having law office experience will help you.
Best of luck to you! If you have anymore questions, contact me.
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I am interested in becoming a paralegal. I see online courses, classes at "colleges" that offer career studies( everything from massage to personal trainers) and some community college options. For those in the legal profession, where would you suggest?
I would suggest a community college of some repute, therefore your diploma will be recognized in a larger area than a local business college. Ask the college of thier placement statisics and the availability of employment in the field you are choosing. Remember the scope of where you can work extends far beyond just "paralegal" you can work in any area from the charitable sector where clients may well need some legal information a paralegal can legally provide to some government jobs and other related fields such as title searching and real estate, dont limit yourself here to just working on your own or in a law firm… Now different areas have different rules governing paralegals and you may want to contact the appropriate body to see what services you can provide. Here in Ontario Canada the profession is now regulated by the Upper Canada Law Society and others may have similiar requirements.
Some colleges offer a co operative component to studies this is often a good idea, as you get some real work experience in the field, contacts and something to put on your resume. If you dont plan on opening your own business, this is a great help. Also you may want to contact some paralegal firms, many can be found in your local yellow pages and ask for an information inteview of what they do, the prospects of employment and career potential.
As I had taken a two year law course in this very field and a co operative placement it proved very beneficial in my first attemtps to secure work. This has lead me to a challenging career in the not for profit field helping clients in areas such as workers compensation and social assistance amongst others.
Think on what you want to do and where it will take you. By the way, dont look for the fastest shortest route to your career, study learn, and get a diploma that will be recognized, you will value this your whole life.
Hope this helps 
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Become a Paralegal #3